When you hear RSV, typically you think of the respiratory illness being associated with infants and young children, but adults can be diagnosed with RSV as well, especially those 60 and older, states Warren County Health Department Administrator Jenna Link:
“We are seeing the RSV, definitely in the younger population, but we are seeing it in the 60 to 65 and older group as well. They are having a hard time with severe symptoms and end up with hospitalizations. Symptoms for RSV in an infant, typically you will just notice your baby is a little more irritable, they aren’t really eating well, lethargic, and the big one is apnea, there are pause sin breathing, and then they will run a fever sometimes, not always present. Children will typically have the runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, and running a fever. Then the same kind of symptoms with adults; a runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, and fatigue.”
Just like the other respiratory illnesses, RSV is spread by coughing, sneezing, and surface contact. Continue to wipe down frequently touched surfaces, wash your hands, and cover your coughing and sneezes.