What Is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that causes mild cold-like symptoms. RSV is a part of the Pneumovirus of the family Paramyxoviridae. It is a single-stranded RNA virus with proteins present in the genome with 15222 nucleotides and three transmembrane proteins, F, G, and SH. The G-proteins are associated with viral host cell attachments. The surface fusion (F) and attachment (G) glycoproteins are the viral components that act as RSV-neutralizing antibodies. These are used as the target sites for vaccine development. The symptoms generally subside within one to two weeks. However, RSV has the potential to worsen into a severe condition. Generally, an adult might become ill with RSV and have mild cold-like symptoms like a sore throat, runny nose, cough, and headache. Sometimes, certain individuals might need hospitalization. RSV infections can be dangerous for confident adults. Every year, it is that around 60,000 to 160,000 adults in the United States are hospitalized, and 6,000 to 10,000 die as a result of RSV infection.
Who Are at a Higher Risk of RSV Infection?
Adults at highest risk for RSV infection include:
- Adults with chronic heart or lung disease.
- Adults with a compromised immune system.
- Adults with some other underlying medical conditions.
- Adults living in nursing homes or care facilities.
What Are the Symptoms of RSV in Adults?
The symptoms of RSV in adults resemble those of other respiratory infections. Common symptoms include
- Cough.
- Congestion.
- Runny nose.
- Sore throat.
- Fever.
- Shortness of breath.
It is important to understand that symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and people with weakened immune systems might experience a more intense illness.
What Are the Complications Involved in RSV Infection?
RSV symptoms usually last from two to eight days; however, these symptoms can last longer, mainly when they are associated with other underlying conditions like:
- Worsening of asthma or COPD symptoms. An RSV infection might lead to an asthma attack or exacerbation of COPD and cause further strain on the compromised lungs.
- Pneumonia or an infection of the lungs that leads to air sacs (alveoli), inflammation in the lungs, and accumulation of fluid. This makes it challenging for the patient to breathe and might be life-threatening.
- Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the bronchioles).
- An RSV infection might cause more severe cardiac symptoms to occur.
Is There a Vaccine for RSV Infection?
RSV vaccine is available that helps to protect against severe disease. RSV vaccine helps to protect adults above 60 years and older from RSV. Talk to the healthcare provider to see if vaccination can be done.
RSV vaccines are needed to protect the patients against re-infections, as the natural immunity to RSV is sometimes incomplete, and there are chances of re-infections. Currently, various RSV vaccines are available, including the generation of peptides, subunits, and live virus vaccines. The vaccines against RSV include:
- Live virus vaccines.
- Formalin-inactivated RSV vaccine.
- Genetically engineered (cDNA-derived) vaccines.
- Subunits vaccine.
- Recombinant vaccine.
- Other - synthetic peptide vaccine.
When Is Emergency Care Required?
There are some signs that indicate that it is an emergency as the patient is experiencing severe respiratory illness, and these require medical attention immediately. These symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath.
- Bluish tint on the skin.
- Fever.
- Wheezing.
- Worsening cough.
In case of any complication, the patient is admitted to the hospital and is administered intravenous (IV) fluids according to the condition. The patient might be given supplemental oxygen to improve oxygen saturation. Antibiotics can also be administered if a secondary infection, such as bacterial pneumonia, develops.
How to Prevent RSV in Adults?
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommended RSV vaccination for adults 60 or older in June 2023. After discussing with the healthcare provider whether RSV vaccination can be administered to a particular individual, the vaccine is recommended.
RSV season in most regions of the United States starts in the fall and peaks in winter. If an individual is at high risk for severe RSV infection or if an infected person interacts with an older adult, extra care must be taken:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, an individual can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Washing hands properly helps to protect against germs.
- Individuals must avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands. Germs spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with the infected individual like kissing and sharing cups or eating utensils.
- Individuals must cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- People frequently touch surfaces and objects, including doorknobs and mobile devices. When individuals with RSV touch surfaces and objects, they can leave behind the germs. Further, when the infected individuals cough or sneeze, droplets with germs can land on surfaces and objects.
- An individual must stay at home in case of sickness. If possible, stay home from work, school, and public areas when sick. This will protect others from catching the illness.
How to Treat RSV in Adults?
There is no particular treatment for RSV infection. Management for mild symptoms of RSV involves fluids and rest. If an individual develops COPD or asthma, then medications are prescribed to reduce breathing difficulties and consult with the healthcare provider if medications might have to be adjusted.
Conclusion:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can impact adults, particularly individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health problems. Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive schemes is important for managing and decreasing the impact of RSV in adults. As the arena of respiratory infections continues to evolve, staying informed and seeking medical help when required remains an essential tool in addressing this viral illness.
As an individual age, it is natural for the body to lose some of the disease-fighting abilities it has. This means recovering from respiratory infections like RSV might take longer. It is important to check in with the healthcare provider about any new or persisting symptoms that a person is experiencing.
