Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infections in Older Adults
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, RSV can be serious, especially for older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions.
What is RSV?
RSV is a virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. It is very contagious and spreads easily through coughs and sneezes. Almost all children will have had an RSV infection by the time they are 2 years old.
In healthy adults and older children, RSV symptoms are typically mild. However, RSV can cause severe infection in some groups, including older adults aged 65 years and above.
RSV Symptoms in Older Adults
Common RSV symptoms seen in older adults may include:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Wheezing
However, the illness tends to be more severe in older adults compared to children. Older adults with RSV often develop lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Risk Factors
Certain underlying medical conditions put older adults at greater risk of severe disease requiring hospitalization. High-risk conditions include:
- Chronic heart or lung disease
- Weakened immune system
- Neurologic or neuromuscular conditions
According to the CDC, up to 10,000 older Americans die from RSV every year. Death can occur from respiratory failure or secondary bacterial infections.
RSV Prevention Strategies for Older Adults
The best way to prevent RSV infection is through vaccination before the RSV season starts. But good hygiene habits and avoiding contact with sick individuals are also key prevention measures.
RSV Vaccine for Older Adults
In June 2022, the FDA approved the first RSV vaccine for adults 60 years and older. This vaccine is given as a single dose injection prior to RSV season.
The vaccine contains a RSV viral protein designed to trigger an immune response and prepare the body to fight off infection. Clinical trials showed the vaccine was effective at preventing severe RSV disease.
The most common side effects were injection site reactions, muscle pain, fatigue, headache. The vaccine is not recommended for severely immunocompromised individuals.
Good Hygiene
Practicing good hygiene can reduce spread of respiratory viruses like RSV. Important habits include:
- Washing hands often with soap and water
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding sharing food, drinks, utensils
- Disinfecting high-touch surfaces
Face masks may provide added protection against RSV. This can be especially helpful in medical settings like hospitals and doctors' offices.
Avoiding Contact with Sick People
Whenever possible, older adults should avoid close contact with people showing signs of respiratory illness. Other tips include:
- Stay home as much as possible during fall/winter RSV season
- Avoid large crowds and poorly ventilated public spaces
- Limit contact with children, especially those with cold symptoms
- Don't share food, drinks, smokes, etc with others
Treatment Options for RSV Infections
Most RSV cases don't require special treatment. But older adults who develop severe lower respiratory tract conditions may need additional care.
Home Recovery Tips
Mild RSV often goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks. Supportive self-care strategies include:
- Drinking fluids to stay hydrated
- Getting extra rest
- Using OTC fever/pain medications as needed
- Using humidifier to ease cough and congestion
Most antibiotics don't work for viral infections. But older adults should watch for secondary bronchitis or sinus infections which may require antibiotics.
Medical Care for Severe Infection
Immediate medical care is vital if an older person experiences:
- Trouble breathing
- Worsening wheezing
- Bluish lips or face
- Confusion
- Severely high fever
Supplemental oxygen, IV fluids, and mechanical ventilation may be needed to stabilize respiration. Doctors also carefully manage other existing medical conditions the patient has.
There are no medications that directly neutralize RSV itself. But an injectable monoclonal antibody medication can reduce risk of serious complications in high-risk patients.
Preventing Hospital Readmission
Proper discharge instructions can help older adults continue recovering safely at home after hospitalization, including:
- Completing full course of prescribed antibiotics
- Following-up promptly with primary care doctor
- Monitoring oxygen levels with home pulse oximeter
- Recognizing signs of worsening infection
Some patients may need transitional care in a skilled nursing facility before going home if they required intensive hospital treatment.
The Bottom Line
RSV is usually mild in healthy adults but can lead to severe respiratory infection in high-risk seniors. The newly approved RSV vaccine can help prevent serious illness in older adults.
Good hygiene, avoiding sick contacts, and prompt treatment of infection complications can also protect vulnerable seniors. Seeking medical care quickly for difficulty breathing or other concerning symptoms is key.
Talk to your doctor ahead of fall RSV season to understand your personal risk factors and prevention/treatment options.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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