Respiratory syncytial virus(RSV) is an infection that can be passed from children to adults.
This is true for infants younger than 6 months old, as well.
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When Do Adults Get RSV?
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Adults can get RSV after being exposed to the virus causing the infection.
However, your healthcare provider maymake a diagnosis of RSVbased on your symptoms and medical history alone.
After you collect your sample, youll send it to a designated lab for testing.
Complications of RSV Symptoms in High-Risk Adults
Complications of severe RSV symptoms in high-risk adults includepneumonia.
How Long Are People Contagious With RSV?
When infected with RSV, you usually are contagious for three to eight days after symptoms start.
However, you could be contagious up to a day or two before showing symptoms.
High-risk and vulnerable people can remain contagious for up to four weeks after symptoms resolve.
Treatment for severe RSV in adults ensures the patient can breathe, drink, and eat adequately and safely.
These methods of protection are geared towardreducing the risk of spreading viral infection.
Abrysvo is also approved for individuals aged 18 to 59 at increased risk.
Arexvy and Abrysvo may increase the risk of developingGuillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)after the vaccine has been administered.
Summary
RSV infection can be passed to adults and cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
you might test for RSV at home or at a healthcare provider’s office.
Vaccination is recommended for all adults over age 75 and those over age 60 with certain risk factors.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms and care of RSV.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How RSV spreads.
American Lung Association.RSV symptoms and diagnosis.
MedlinePlus.Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) tests.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Older adults are at high risk for severe RSV illness.
American Lung Association.RSV prevention and treatment.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vaccines for older adults.
