Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

RSV is a common virus that usually spreads in autumn and winter. Most people have had RSV as a child. However, you can get it again.

For most people, RSV causes a mild illness, such as a cough or cold. However, babies under one year of age and older adults are at risk of becoming very unwell. Sometimes, people who get ill from RSV infection may need hospital care. RSV can be more dangerous for some people, especially those with certain health conditions. It may even cause death.

How is RSV spread? 

RSV is spread through close contact with infected people. When infected people cough or sneeze, they release tiny droplets containing the virus into the air. RSV can also be spread by people touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them. 

To help stop RSV and other viruses spreading, remember to:  

Who is at most risk from RSV?

Babies under one year of age and older adults are at risk of becoming very unwell.  

Other people are at increased risk of severe illness from RSV. This includes: 

• babies who are born early   
• babies with certain health conditions, such as heart or lung problems  
• people who have severe lung disease, and   
• those with a weakened immune system.  

What are the symptoms of an RSV infection?

RSV infection causes symptoms similar to a cold. These include:  

• a cough  
• a runny or blocked nose  
• sneezing, and  
• tiredness.  

In some cases, RSV can also cause wheezing, shortness of breath or a fever.    

In babies, additional symptoms can include:  

• rapid or noisy breathing   

• being unsettled or difficult to comfort, and  

• difficulty feeding.   

RSV can cause lung infections such as:   

• pneumonia (external site) (infection of the lungs), and   
• bronchiolitis (external site).   
• RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in young babies. Bronchiolitis is a lung infection which makes it difficult to breathe and feed. It affects babies and children under two and can usually be treated at home. However, in some cases it can be severe and children may need intensive care. It can sometimes lead to death.  

RSV may also cause other conditions in young children, for example: 

• a barking cough (croup) (external site), and  
• a painful infection inside the ear (otitis media) (external site). 

Learn more

See the ‘Further information’ section below to learn more about RSV and the RSV vaccine. 

You can also call NHS 111 or your GP practice for advice if you have any questions.