Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It can lead to a variety of symptoms, primarily affecting the lungs and airway. RSV also usually causes a fever as an immune response to the infection. While most healthy adults experience mild symptoms, RSV can lead to severe symptoms, especially for anyone who is considered ‘at-risk’. This includes young children, the elderly and anyone with underlying lung conditions. Keep reading to learn more about symptoms associated with RSV and signs you need medical treatment.
If you’re feeling sick and need rapid symptom relief, AFC Urgent Care Southcenter is here to help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic in Kent, WA offers rapid same-day care on a walk-in basis! We have the shortest wait times in the area, so visit us for convenient care when you need it. We accept walk-in patients daily, or patients can schedule their visit online using the button below.
What Symptoms Does RSV Usually Cause?
RSV affects the respiratory system which includes the lungs, airway and sinuses. As a result, RSV symptoms can include:
- Severe cough
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
Is an RSV-Induced Fever Normal?
Getting a fever from a viral infection is relatively common. While not every case of RSV will cause a fever, our bodies can heat up as a means to kill off viruses and other pathogens. Getting a fever from RSV is an indication that your body’s immune system is working hard to rid itself of the infection. As a result, getting a mild fever with a case of RSV is relatively normal, but should be monitored, especially in young children.
RSV Prevention Tips
RSV is highly contagious, and can easily spread from person to person through direct contact with someone who is carrying RSV, particles in the air released by coughing, and by touching something directly after someone who is sick. Because of this, RSV outbreaks can happen quickly, especially in offices and schools. There is an RSV vaccine available for at-risk individuals, however prevention for RSV involves improving your overall hygiene practices by washing and sanitizing your hands, not touching your face, and disinfecting surfaces often.
Visit AFC Southcenter for Illness Treatment With No Appointment Necessary
Illnesses spread quickly during the colder months of the year. While RSV may cause mild symptoms for most, it can lead to severe symptoms in some cases. Understanding normal RSV symptoms and severe symptoms is vital so you can make educated decisions about your health.
At AFC Urgent Care Southcenter, we’re here to support you all winter long. Our walk-in clinic offers same-day illness diagnosis and treatment for many common conditions, including RSV. Using our on-site laboratory, our experienced medical providers will accurately diagnose and treat the cause of your symptoms! We work with most medical insurance providers, and have affordable rates for self-paying patients. To learn more, give us a call at (425) 291-3300 or walk into the clinic for same-day care.
