How to spot RSV symptoms and simple steps to protect yourself against the virus

With this winter's influx of viruses, it's more important than ever to know how to protect yourself from infection. From washing your hands to getting vaccinated where you're eligible, there are ways we can keep ourselves safe from catching the array of winter bugs that are currently doing the rounds in the UK.

With this in mind, health officials are urging older adults to get vaccinated against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract.

The NHS states that there were over 1,000 RSV cases in adults aged 75 and over last year in Scotland. And if you're 75 years old or over on July 31, you’ll be offered the RSV vaccine this year. This includes if your 75th birthday is on July 31.

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NHS England also announced on Monday that more than one million adults in England, aged between 75 and 79, or those who turned 80 after September 1, will be invited to receive the RSV jab over the next few days.

“RSV is not just a winter illness,” said Steve Russell, national director for vaccinations and screening at NHS England. “We see cases increase in winter, but it can occur all year round and can make older people seriously ill, so it is vital everyone eligible gets vaccinated – which is why we are now working hard to reach anyone who hasn’t yet been jabbed and urging them to book an appointment.”

RSV often starts like a common cold. But it can develop into more serious respiratory issues, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. But how can you protect yourself and others from infection? Here's everything you need to know about RSV.

What is RSV?

“RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that affects the lungs and airways,” says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. “It spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and by touching surfaces that have the virus on them. It’s particularly common in winter and spreads quickly in nurseries, schools and care homes.”

Who is more at risk?

RSV can affect anyone, but as with most viruses, certain groups of people are more vulnerable to severe illness.

“Babies under one year old, especially those born prematurely or with existing health conditions, are most at risk,” highlights Tang. “Older adults, particularly those over 65, are also more likely to develop complications.

“People with asthma, chronic lung conditions, or weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of having a more severe illness if they catch RSV.”

What are the most common symptoms of RSV?

“RSV symptoms are similar to a cold,” says Karen Spillett, content manager at Asthma + Lung UK. “So, it’s a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and coughing – and in babies and children, RSV symptoms can cause difficulty feeding.”

The main difference between a cold and RSV is that the latter tends to cause more breathing difficulties, adds Tang. “A cold usually comes with a blocked or runny nose, a cough, and sometimes a mild fever, while RSV can cause wheezing and difficulty breathing,” the expert explains.

When should you alert a medical professional about your symptoms?

Most cases of RSV get better on their own, but if your symptoms don't improve, it’s important to see a doctor. “If a baby isn’t feeding as usual, seems very sleepy, or is struggling to breathe, it’s best to get medical advice straight away,” advises Tang.

“In older children and adults, a high fever that won’t go down, signs of dehydration, or worsening breathing should be checked by a GP. “If a baby’s skin looks blue or they seem to be gasping for air, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.”

Can RSV lead to any complications?

For most people, RSV is nothing more than an unpleasant cold, but for some, it can lead to more serious complications. “RSV can cause bronchiolitis in babies and young children,” says Spillett.

“Bronchiolitis is a common chest infection that affects babies and children under two years old, and it usually gets better by itself. Most children can be looked after at home but sometimes it requires hospital treatment.”

And for some older adults and people with lung conditions or weakened immune systems, RSV can lead to pneumonia. “Pneumonia is a more serious infection that may require antibiotics or hospital care,” says Tang.

What can you do to protect yourself?

Get the vaccine

“If you’re in one of the eligible groups, the main advice is to get your vaccination when you are invited to get it, as it is the best way to protect yourself or your baby,” says Spillett.

“The two groups that are eligible for the vaccination are the older adults (between 75 to 79) or people who are 28 or more weeks pregnant as it helps protect the baby for the first few months after they are born. When you reach those kind of milestones, that’s when you’ll be invited, regardless of whether that falls within the winter period.”

Tang adds: “People with serious lung diseases or weakened immune systems may be offered protection as well. Anyone unsure about whether they or their child are eligible should check with their GP, who can offer personalised advice.”

Wash your hands regularly

“RSV is highly infectious and is spread through coughs or sneezes, so make sure you and your child are both washing your hands regularly and are covering your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze,” recommends Spillett.

Use disposable tissues

“Try and use disposable tissues rather than a hanky, and throw them away as soon as you or your child have used them,” suggests Spillett. “If you don’t have a tissue, then cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow.”

Clean surfaces and toys

“Make sure you clean and wipe down surfaces in your home and your child’s toys regularly,” recommends Spillett. “Also, try to avoid sharing cutlery with other people.”

Avoid close contact with people who are unwell

“Try to keep newborn babies, in particular, away from anyone with a cold or flu symptoms,” says Spillett.