What organs does respiratory syncytial virus affect?

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) primarily affects the respiratory tract, particularly the lungs and airways. It causes inflammation and infection of the small airways (bronchioles) and the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This can lead to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.

In severe cases, RSV infection can spread to other organs, including:

- The middle ear, causing otitis media

- The brain and spinal cord, causing encephalitis or meningitis

- The heart, leading to myocarditis or pericarditis

- The liver, resulting in hepatitis

While severe complications from RSV are more common in infants, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, the virus can also affect older children and adults.