RSV in Older Adults: Why It’s More Than Just a Cold

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is often underestimated. However, RSV can pose significant health risks to older adults, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions. Here’s what you need to know about RSV and how it can impact your health.

Seasonal Variability and Transmission

While RSV typically circulates in the U.S. from fall through early spring, its seasonality has become less predictable in recent years. This makes it even more important for older adults to stay vigilant throughout the year. RSV spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also survive on surfaces, increasing the chances of transmission through touch.

• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing

The virus is transmitted through droplets that spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also survive on surfaces like countertops and toys, making it easy to catch through touch​​.

The Unique Risk to Older Adults

For most healthy adults, RSV might seem like a minor inconvenience, causing symptoms like a runny nose or a slight cough. However, for older adults, especially those with chronic conditions such as heart or lung disease, RSV can escalate quickly. The virus can lead to more severe respiratory issues, such as pneumonia or exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which may require hospitalization.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early symptoms of RSV in older adults can mirror those of a common cold, making it easy to overlook the infection’s potential severity. These symptoms can include:

• Mild cough
• Runny nose
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever

As the infection progresses, older adults may experience more serious symptoms, such as:

• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Wheezing

If these symptoms worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing RSV is particularly important for older adults due to the higher risk of complications. Key preventive measures include:

• Vaccination: Vaccines can offer protection against RSV for older adults, reducing the likelihood of severe illness.
• Hand hygiene: Regular and thorough handwashing remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of RSV.
• Avoiding close contact: Limiting exposure to individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness can reduce the risk of contracting RSV.

Why Participate in Vaccine Studies?

Every year, RSV causes up to 160,000 hospitalizations in adults aged 64 and older.

Participating in vaccine studies helps advance our understanding of how to prevent RSV and protect vulnerable populations. By contributing to this research, you play a crucial role in shaping the future of public health and reducing the burden of RSV.

_Sources

_{1. CDC | RSV Surveillance & Research}

_{2. CDC | 2023-2024 Respiratory Virus Season Is Likely Past Peak but Far from Over}

_{3. Mayo Clinic | Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)}

_{4. Mayo Clinic | Hand-washing: Do's and don'ts}

_{5. CDC | RSV in Older Adults and Adults with Chronic Medical Conditions}

_{6. National Institute on Aging | Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): What You Should Know}