Don’t let your plans get cut short by RSV

What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common, highly contagious virus that usually causes mild symptoms. In older adults and adults living with certain underlying conditions, RSV can cause severe infections.

Even the best-laid plans could be cut short by RSV. While you may not have heard of it yet, RSV is not a new virus and may be more of a health concern than you think—even if you're healthy.

People of all ages can get RSV. But if you’re aged 60 or over, RSV infection can be severe.

What are the symptoms of RSV infection?

Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe, and sometimes they can last up to 2 weeks. RSV can cause severe symptoms in older adults and adults living with certain underlying conditions.

RSV symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore Throat
  • Runny Nose
  • Congestion
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Sneezing
  • Wheezing
  • Rapid/difficulty breathing
  • Cyanosis (bluish coloring of the skin due to lack of oxygen)

How does RSV spread?

Similar to some other respiratory infections, a cough or sneeze can easily spread RSV. And while you're typically contagious for 3-8 days, some people, especially those with weakened immune systems, can be contagious for as long as 4 weeks—even after they stop showing symptoms.

RSV and the seasons

Is there a time of the year in which RSV infections occur more frequently, as is the case with other common respiratory infections? Prior to 2021, the RSV season in Ireland usually began in October and subsided in February. However in recent years the RSV season has started as early as August. The 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 seasons started earlier, lasted longer and were more severe in terms of case numbers and hospitalisations compared to previous seasons.

DO YOU KNOW RSV?

Can RSV lead to pneumonia?

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Yes. Although RSV infection is usually mild, it can sometimes lead to pneumonia or other complications.

Did you know?

People can get RSV multiple times throughout their lives. RSV can be serious for older adults.

Disease awareness information provided by GSK Ireland. This information does not constitute personal medical advice, please speak to your GP, practice nurse, or pharmacist to discuss how to manage the risk of RSV.

If you experience any side effects while taking a medicinal product, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. Adverse events should be reported directly to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) on their website: Reporting Suspected Side Effects (hpra.ie).