What Is RSV? Symptoms, Risks and How Vaccination Can Help

What Is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat and lungs. Many people associate RSV with babies and young children, but it can also cause serious illness in older adults and people with certain health conditions.

Most people will catch RSV at some point in their lives. In healthy adults, it often causes symptoms similar to a cold. However, in some people it can lead to more serious complications affecting the lungs and breathing.

How Does RSV Spread?

RSV spreads easily from person to person. The virus tends to circulate more during the autumn and winter months, and people can spread RSV even before they realise they are unwell — making it easy for the virus to pass between family members, friends and carers.

• Coughing and sneezing
• Close contact with someone who is infected
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
• Direct contact such as handshakes or caring for someone who is unwell

Who Is Most at Risk?

Anyone can catch RSV, but some groups are more likely to develop complications. For these groups, RSV can cause more severe illness and may increase the risk of hospitalisation.

• Adults aged 75 years and over
• Adults aged 60 to 74 years with certain underlying health conditions
• People with chronic heart disease
• People with chronic lung conditions such as COPD or severe asthma
• People with weakened immune systems
• Residents of care homes and long-term care facilities

Common Symptoms of RSV

RSV symptoms can vary from person to person. Most people recover within one to two weeks, but symptoms may last longer in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Common symptoms include:

In some cases, symptoms can become more severe and may include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing.

Why RSV Can Be Serious in Older Adults

As we age, our immune systems become less effective at fighting infections. This means that RSV is more likely to affect the lungs and cause complications in older adults. Recovery may also take longer than in younger, healthier individuals.

While many people think of RSV as a childhood illness, it is increasingly recognised as an important cause of serious respiratory illness in older adults.

RSV vs Cold, Flu and COVID-19

RSV shares many symptoms with the common cold, influenza and COVID-19, which can make it difficult to tell the difference. Because symptoms can overlap, it is often not possible to identify the infection based on symptoms alone.

RSV is particularly associated with lower respiratory tract infections and can cause significant breathing difficulties in vulnerable individuals. Regardless of the cause, people at higher risk of complications should seek medical advice if they develop worsening symptoms or difficulty breathing.

How RSV Vaccination Helps Protect You

Vaccination helps your immune system recognise RSV and respond more effectively if you are exposed to the virus. While vaccination cannot guarantee that you will not catch RSV, it can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe illness and help protect your long-term health.

For people who are eligible, vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of RSV during the winter respiratory virus season.

When to Consider Vaccination

If you are unsure whether RSV vaccination is suitable for you, our pharmacy team can discuss your eligibility and help answer any questions you may have.

• You are aged 75 years or over
• You have been invited for RSV vaccination through an NHS programme
• You have an underlying health condition that increases your risk of complications
• You want additional protection against serious respiratory illness

What to Do Next

If you’re considering RSV vaccination, our pharmacy team can provide advice and help you understand your options. We can discuss eligibility, answer any questions you may have, and arrange vaccination where appropriate.

Protecting yourself against RSV can help reduce your risk of serious respiratory illness and provide added reassurance during the winter months.