RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Infection

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infection in your nose, throat, lungs, and airways. An RSV infection causes the airways to become swollen and filled with fluid and mucus. This infection may make it hard for you to breathe. An RSV infection is most common from fall through spring. An RSV infection may lead to other lung problems, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:

• You have chest pain or trouble breathing.

Return to the emergency department if:

• You have a fever over 102ºF (39ºC).

Call your doctor if:

• You have thick, green, or yellow drainage from your nose.
• You cough up thick yellow, green, or bloody mucus.
• Your symptoms do not get better, or they get worse.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need the following:

• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Manage your symptoms:

• Get plenty of rest. Rest can help your body fight the infection.
• Drink more liquids than usual. Liquids will help thin and loosen mucus so you can cough it up. Liquids will also keep you hydrated. Liquids that help prevent dehydration include water, fruit juice, or broth. Do not drink liquids with caffeine. Caffeine can increase your risk for dehydration. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day.
• Remove mucus from your nose. Place saline (saltwater) spray or drops into your nose to help remove mucus. Saline spray and drops are available over-the-counter. Follow directions on the spray or drops bottle. Blow your nose after you use these products.
• Use a cool mist humidifier in your room. Cool mist can help thin mucus and make it easier for you to breathe. Be sure to clean the humidifier as directed.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Synagis
• Arexvy
• ribavirin
• Abrysvo
• Virazole

View more treatment options

Prevent an RSV infection:

• Ask about the RSV vaccine. Your healthcare provider may recommend the vaccine if you are at high risk for an RSV infection. The vaccine is given to adults 60 years or older. It may also be given to pregnant persons to help prevent infection in infants younger than 6 months. The vaccine is given between weeks 32 and 36 of pregnancy, or at least 2 weeks before delivery.
• Wash your hands often. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water every time. Rub your soapy hands together, lacing your fingers. Wash the front and back of each hand, and in between all fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the fingernails of the other hand. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Rinse with warm, running water for several seconds. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. You can use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands first.
• Clean objects with a disinfectant solution. Clean tables, counters, and doorknobs. Use a disinfecting wipe, a single-use sponge, or a cloth you can wash and reuse. Use disinfecting cleaners if you do not have wipes. You can create a disinfecting cleaner by mixing 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. Wash sheets and towels in hot, soapy water, and dry on high heat.
• Stay away from people who are sick. Avoid crowds or people with colds and other respiratory infections.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can increase your risk for infection. Ask your provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your provider before you use these products.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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