Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common and contagious respiratory virus. It is responsible for respiratory tract and lung infections.

RSV infection can occur at any age, but it is the main cause of respiratory infections in young children. Most children will have had an RSV infection by the age of 2. The infection usually clears up on its own in 1 to 2 weeks, without medical consultation or treatment. However, it can also cause serious complications, particularly in babies, young children and the elderly.

RSV infections generally occur from late autumn to early spring, during the coldest months of the year.

RSV is transmitted from one person to another by droplets from the nose or throat of an infected person.

Symptoms of RSV infection can resemble those of a cold or flu. Symptoms may include:

• nasal congestion or runny nose
• sore throat
• coughing
• fatigue;
• fever;
• wheezing;
• loss of appetite and energy;
• irritability in children.

It can take from 2 to 8 days between exposure to RSV and the onset of symptoms. This is known as the incubation period.

When to Consult

Most healthy people recover from RSV infection without any special treatment and get better in 7 to 14 days.

If you have any questions about the care recommended for you or your child, or the need to consult a health-care professional, please refer to the Guide to taking care of yourself if you have an infectious respiratory disease.

RSV infection can cause a more serious infection or aggravate existing medical conditions, leading to hospitalization and even death.

RSV is the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants. Between 20% and 30% of infants develop bronchiolitis or pneumonia the first time they are infected with RSV.

Some protective and hygienic measures can also help prevent the transmission of RSV infection. There are a number of steps for limiting the spread of respiratory infectious diseases. 

Immunization

Immunization is the best way to protect against RSV infections and their complications. It involves the administration of a preventive treatment or vaccine to help the body defend itself against disease. In Quebec, RSV immunization is offered free of charge to eligible individuals.

To find out more about the RSV immunization program and who is eligible, depending on the immunizing product used, visit the Immunization against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections page.