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Health Department

11/12/24 Public Health Education Topic: RSV

Per CDC:

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV symptoms make it difficult to distinguish it from the common cold or other respiratory viruses (like the flu or COVID-19). RSV spreads in the fall and winter along with other respiratory viruses. It usually peaks in December and January.


What to know

  • RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms.

  • Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization.

  • CDC recommends immunizations to protect infants, some young children, and older adults.


RSV can spread when:

  • A person who has RSV coughs or sneezes near you

  • You get virus droplets from a cough or sneeze in your eyes, nose, or mouth

  • You have direct contact with the virus, like kissing the face of a child with RSV

  • You touch a surface that has the virus on it, like a doorknob, and then touch your face before washing your hands

Anyone can get RSV, but typically most people get RSV for the first time as an infant or toddler. Nearly all children will get RSV before their second birthday. However, repeat infections may occur throughout life.


To learn more visit: About RSV | RSV | CDC



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