What are the causes and symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus infection?
Respiratory syncytial virus is spread through close contact with an infected person. It has been shown that if a person with RSV infection sneezes, the virus can be carried to others within a radius of 6 f (1.8 m). This group of viruses is hardy. They can live on the hands for up to half an hour and on toys or other inanimate objects for several hours. Scientists have yet to understand why RSV viruses attack the lower respiratory system in infants and the upper respiratory system in adults. In infants, RSV begins with such cold symptoms as a low fever, runny nose, and sore throat. Soon, other symptoms appear that suggest an infection which involves the lower airways. Some of these symptoms resemble those of asthma. RSV infection is suggested by: • wheezing and high-pitched, whistling breathing • rapid breathing (more than 40 breaths per minute) • shortness of breath • labored breathing out (exhalations) • bluish tinge to the skin (cyanosis) • croupy, seal-like, barking cough • high fev
