The initial symptoms of RSV may mimic those of a common cold. However, in more severe cases, the virus can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing severe symptoms like fever, fatigue, cough, wheezing, breathlessness, and a decrease in appetite.1,2
Older adults are more susceptible to severe disease due to age-related decline in immunity and may even be hospitalized or die due to an RSV infection.3
RSV can be particularly dangerous for people with pre-existing health conditions as they are at risk of developing severe RSV infections, these include:
Adults with chronic heart or lung disease
Adults with weakened immune systems
Adults living in nursing homes3
It's also vital to note that adults can easily transmit RSV to infants and young children, potentially leading to severe complications in these vulnerable groups.2