What is RSV?

This article was written in collaboration with GSK.

With the arrival of cooler weather, various respiratory viruses, such as influenza, are resurfacing. But another virus, often less well known, can also cause serious problems: the respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. This virus can lead to serious complications, especially in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

What is RSV?

RSV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It causes symptoms similar to those of a cold, including nasal congestion, a runny nose, cough, and sometimes fever.

This virus is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in infants and can be fatal in older adults. As with influenza and COVID-19, having been infected once does not protect against reinfection. Fortunately, subsequent infections tend to be less severe.

How can you protect yourself?

Basic hygiene measures, such as hand washing, wearing a mask, and following respiratory etiquette (coughing into your elbow and using tissues), are helpful. Still, vaccination remains the most effective means of prevention.

RSV vaccines are now available and have been shown to be effective over time. They can be received safely, even at the same time as other vaccines, such as those for seasonal flu, COVID-19, or pneumococcus. Co-administration of vaccines offers better protection without increasing the number of appointments.

Pregnant? Getting vaccinated also protects your baby

An RSV vaccine is available for pregnant women to pass on antibodies to their babies that will protect them during their first critical months of life. This natural protection lasts up to 6 months after birth.

If you were not vaccinated during pregnancy and your baby is at risk, monoclonal antibodies can also be administered to protect them against severe forms of RSV.

What if there is an infection?

There is currently no cure for RSV. Treatment is therefore symptomatic: relieve fever, clear the airways, and ensure proper hydration. Antibiotics are useless, as this is a virus, not bacteria.

Any doubts? Any questions?

Talk to your healthcare professional. They can advise you on vaccination, preventive measures, and what to do if an infection occurs.