Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory infection that tends to spread in the fall and winter months. While it often affects children, adults can get RSV too, and outbreaks are especially common in crowded places like schools, nursing homes, and daycares. If you’ve recently been around someone who has tested positive for RSV, you may be wondering: How soon will symptoms appear? Understanding the RSV incubation period can help you know what to expect and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day RSV testing and care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. Our center provides urgent care and primary care services for patients of all ages. Walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
What’s The Incubation Period For RSV?
After being exposed to RSV, symptoms typically begin within 4 to 6 days. However, the incubation period can range from 2 to 8 days, depending on the individual and their immune response. This means you could start showing symptoms as early as 2 days after contact, or it may take up to a week for signs of illness to appear.
When symptoms of RSV do appear, they often start mild and may resemble a common cold. Early signs of RSV include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever
- Headache or general fatigue
For some adults, RSV may never progress beyond mild cold-like symptoms. However, for infants, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems, RSV can become more serious.
How Long Are You Contagious With RSV?
People with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days after symptoms begin. However, some people (particularly infants and those with weakened immune systems) may remain contagious for up to 4 weeks, even if they no longer show symptoms. That’s why RSV spreads so quickly in households, schools, and healthcare settings. Practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact when sick can help limit transmission.
In certain cases, RSV symptoms can worsen after a few days, leading to high fever, dehydration, chest congestion, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia may occur in high-risk groups.
When To Seek Urgent Care For RSV
Most healthy adults can recover from RSV at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. However, you should seek urgent care if you experience:
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- High fever that doesn’t improve with fever reducers
- Symptoms that worsen after a few days instead of improving
- Signs of dehydration (such as dizziness or reduced urination)
At urgent care, a medical provider can evaluate your symptoms, rule out other conditions like the flu or COVID-19, and provide supportive treatments to help you recover faster.
Get Walk-In RSV Testing & Care at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park
RSV symptoms usually start 4 to 6 days after exposure, but may appear as early as 2 days or as late as a week. While RSV is often mild in healthy adults, it can cause serious illness in infants, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are RSV or another illness, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. Our center proudly serves all patients in the greater Denver, CO area– including RiNo, North Denver, and Central Park. If you can’t get in to see your primary care doctor and have no time to wait, come visit us today! We accept most health insurance plans and provide cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 381-1100.
