Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. It spreads easily from person to person, especially in children under 2 years of age.

Most RSV infections cause mild cold-like symptoms, but in some cases—especially in infants, premature babies, and older adults—it can lead to serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of small airways) or pneumonia (lung infection).

RSV is very common—nearly all children are infected with RSV by the age of 2. In healthy children, RSV usually goes away on its own, but in high-risk groups, it can be more serious and sometimes require hospitalization.

RSV spreads through:

• Coughs and sneezes from infected people
• Close contact (such as kissing or touching)
• Contaminated surfaces or objects (like toys, doorknobs, or hands)

The virus can survive for several hours on hard surfaces and easily spreads in daycare centers, schools, or crowded households.

RSV symptoms usually begin 4 to 6 days after exposure and may include:

Mild symptoms (like a cold):

• Runny nose
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Decreased appetite
• Mild sore throat

Severe symptoms (especially in infants):

• Rapid or difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Flaring nostrils or chest retractions (sucking in of chest while breathing)
• Bluish lips or fingertips
• Fatigue, poor feeding, or dehydration

In very young infants, RSV may be the only cause of irritability, poor feeding, and apnea (pauses in breathing)—even without fever or cough.

RSV can cause more severe illness in:

• Infants under 6 months
• Premature babies
• Children with heart or lung problems\
• Children with weakened immune systems
• Older adults (especially over age 65)
• People with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD)

For general population:

• Wash hands often with soap and water
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Disinfect surfaces and toys regularly
• Keep infants away from crowds and avoid sharing cups or utensils

For high-risk infants:

• Monoclonal antibody injection (nirsevimab or palivizumab) may be recommended during RSV season to help prevent severe infection. Your doctor will decide if your child qualifies.