During the months of June to February, when rainfall increases, we also see a rise in flu-like illnesses.1 While symptoms may initially appear to be a common cold, it could actually be indicative of a more serious condition. In some cases, these symptoms could be a sign of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which is a significant but often overlooked threat, especially for older adults.
RSV is a widespread yet lesser-known respiratory virus often underestimated in older adults. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), RSV spreads through inhalation or contact with respiratory droplets from infected individuals.2 Common symptoms of RSV include colds, congestion, cough, wheezing, and fever.3 Although these symptoms may resemble those of the common cold, RSV can be much more dangerous, particularly among high-risk individuals, such as the elderly and those with comorbidities.
Why seniors should be concerned about RSV
Each year, approximately 177,000 adults aged 65 and older are hospitalized in the United States due to RSV, with an estimated 10,000 cases resulting in death.4 In the Philippines, surveillance data from WHO shows that RSV co-circulates with influenza and other respiratory viruses. 5 This silent threat, if left unchecked, can lead to severe complications or even be fatal.6
Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe and may last up to two weeks, typically appearing four to six days after exposure to the virus.7 The virus spreads primarily through inhalation of airborne droplets from coughs and sneezes or through direct contact with contaminated surfaces.8
For instance, an RSV-infected child can transmit the virus to up to three other household members, highlighting how easily it can spread.9 Furthermore, the British Medical Journal (BMJ) published a study that states that RSV has been recognized as one of the common culprits behind respiratory tract infections in adults.10 The disease has significantly infected and caused deaths in infants and older adults.11
How RSV puts seniors with chronic conditions at risk
RSV is often known for infecting infants and toddlers, especially those under two years old. However, it can be equally dangerous for older adults due to age-related declines in immune function.12 As we age, our immune system’s ability to respond to infections weakens, making it easier for viruses like RSV to take hold. For adults with chronic conditions, RSV poses a dual threat: it not only increases the risk of severe illness but can also exacerbate existing health problems, creating a vicious cycle of declining health.
A newly published study on RSV infection among adults showed that chronic respiratory and heart diseases, as well as diabetes, were prevalent in patients hospitalized with RSV.13 Those who are considered high risk, according to the National Library of Medicine, are individuals with conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart failure.14
Additionally, RSV can worsen chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and existing comorbidities. People with asthma are twice as likely to need hospitalization due to RSV. This risk escalates to six times greater for individuals with heart disease and diabetes, and it is 13 times higher for those with COPD.15
What to do to protect yourself from RSV
It can be challenging to distinguish RSV from other respiratory illnesses as it shares symptoms with the flu and even COVID-19. However, it’s vital for patients whose mild to severe symptoms persist to seek medical help. This will ensure that necessary tests can be conducted, providing you with the reassurance and care you need since there is currently no specific treatment available for RSV in adults.10
There are simple ways to stay healthy and avoid getting infected by RSV. Starting a proactive routine can lessen the threat of contracting the virus. This includes frequent hand washing, disinfecting surfaces and objects, wearing a mask when you cough or sneeze, and distancing yourself from sick people.16 If you’re an older adult or an adult with underlying conditions, you may be at greater risk of contracting RSV. It’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to protect yourself and others. – Rappler.com
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References:
1 World Health Organization. Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). https://www.who.int/tools/flunet
2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2023. RSV transmission. www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/transmission.html
3 Stephens LM;Vaccines;2021;9;624 (v1.0)
4 National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), 2023. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Retrieved from: https://www.nfid.org/infectious-disease/rsv/)
5 World Health Organization. Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). https://www.who.int/tools/flunet
6 Branche AR, et al. Clin Infect Dis 2022;74:1004-1011. Incidence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Among Hospitalized Adults, 2017-2020. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/ciab595
7 Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353098
8 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2023. RSV transmission. Retrieved from: www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/transmission.html
9 Walsh EE et al. J Infect Dis 2013;207:1424–1432. Viral shedding and immune responses to respiratory syncytial virus infection in older adults. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jit038
10 Nam HH and Ison MG. BMJ 2019;366:l5021. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in adults. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l5021
11 ED, emergency department; National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), 2023. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) https://www.nfid.org/infectious-disease/rsv/ (accessed October 2023)
12 Cleveland Clinic. Adults 60 and up are at greater risk of complications from RSV (June 4, 2023). Retrieved from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/rsv-in-older-adults 13 Moskowitz B. (2024). Severe RSV Infection Risk in Adults May Be Heightened by Comorbidities. Retrieved from: https://www.medpagetoday.com/resource-centers/rsv adults/severe-rsv-infection-risk-adults-may-heightened-comorbidities/4978