RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a very common virus.

In most babies and young children, RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most do not experience serious RSV infections. However, in babies with certain risk factors, it can cause serious lung infections that need to be treated at the hospital.

What is a virus?
A virus is a very tiny, nonliving agent capable of infecting living cells and causing various diseases in humans, animals and plants.

Almost all children get
RSV at least once before
they are 2 years old.

What are the symptoms of an RSV infection?

Symptoms may include:

  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Dry cough
  • Low-grade fever
  • Sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • Headache

What are the symptoms of a severe RSV infection?

Symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Severe cough
  • Wheezing (a whistling sound caused by difficulty breathing)
  • Short, shallow and fast breathing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Blue colour of the skin
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Unusual tiredness
  • Irritability

If your baby is showing more serious symptoms, or is considered to be at high risk for serious complications from an RSV infection, talk to your healthcare professional. Medical options exist that can help protect your baby from RSV.

Is my baby at risk?

Don't know where to start? Download a helpful discussion guide and bring it with you the next time you speak with your healthcare professional.