Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common winter virus that can potentially cause severe health complications in vulnerable older adults and young babies. RSV affects the airways and lungs and typically peaks in the winter months. Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency shows an increase in cases of RSV, with emergency departments seeing a rise in acute bronchiolitis among children – a lung infection caused by RSV. Despite its prevalence, many people in the UK are unfamiliar with RSV. A survey conducted by Ipsos found that 75% of respondents had never heard of RSV, with awareness being even lower among those over 60 who are at higher risk of serious illness from the virus.
While RSV is not usually serious in most cases, some babies and adults have a higher risk of developing severe illnesses such as bronchiolitis in young babies and pneumonia in older adults. As the winter season progresses, respiratory viruses like RSV are likely to spread, posing a risk to vulnerable populations. With limited treatment options available for RSV, hospital care often involves supportive measures such as providing oxygen and fluids to reduce dehydration. A surge in RSV admissions could further strain an already burdened NHS, underscoring the importance of taking preventive measures to protect against the virus and help preserve healthcare resources.
RSV spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it important to practice good hygiene habits such as regular handwashing and cleaning surfaces to reduce the risk of transmission. While most people will recover from RSV on their own, older adults and young babies may develop more severe illnesses such as bronchiolitis in infants and pneumonia in older individuals. In England, RSV leads to a significant number of GP appointments, hospitalizations, and deaths each year, highlighting the impact of the virus on public health.
Certain populations, such as pregnant women and those aged 75 and older, may be eligible for RSV vaccination to help protect against the virus. Pregnant women are offered the vaccine around the time of their 28-week antenatal appointment, while older individuals can receive a free NHS vaccine to prevent RSV-related illnesses. Pfizer is running an awareness campaign called Be RSV Aware to educate the public about the risks of RSV infection and prevention options. The campaign includes a traveling installation featuring a sculpture made of ‘Get Well’ cards, representing the number of people hospitalized due to RSV each year.
Symptoms of RSV typically appear four to six days after infection and include a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In very young babies, symptoms may be more subtle, such as irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties. Most children will have had an RSV infection by age two, and it can lead to bronchiolitis in babies and young children. Recognizing the symptoms of RSV and seeking medical attention when necessary is crucial in managing the virus and preventing complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as older adults and young babies.
