Prevention

RSV season in most regions of the U.S. starts in the fall and peaks in winter. Older adults should take extra care to keep healthy. Ways to prevent spreading or catching the RSV virus include:

• Washing your hands regularly
• Staying home when sick
• Avoiding touching your face
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Avoiding sharing dishes or utensils with others
• Avoiding close contact with others who may have the virus

Everyone aged 75 years or older should get vaccinated against the RSV virus.

Those who are 60 to 74 years old and who are at high risk for severe RSV disease should also receive the vaccine. Your healthcare professional will consider your medical condition and risk factors for getting seriously sick from RSV when helping you decide whether to get the vaccine if you are in this age group.

Treatments

There are no specific treatments for the RSV virus itself. However, treatments for respiratory illness in general can be used for RSV illness.

If you have a mild RSV infection, it will usually go away by itself in 1-2 weeks. You can use over the counter medications like pain relievers to manage mild symptoms. You should also rest and drink plenty of fluids.

However, more serious infections can require treatment in the hospital. If you are hospitalized with an RSV infection, you may receive IV fluids if you are dehydrated, or supplemental oxygen if you do not have enough oxygen in your blood.

Last updated July 2024