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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Learn about RSV, who is at risk, and how it spreads.

About RSV

RSV is a common infection that affects the airways and lungs. It is a type of respiratory illness. It is usually mild, but it can be more serious in young children, older adults, and people with certain health problems. You can get it more than once in your life.

RSV season tends to start in late fall and last until spring.

Who is most at risk?

RSV mostly affects babies, young children, and older adults. But you can get RSV at any age.

As you get older, you have a higher risk of getting very sick or needing care in the hospital because of RSV. You are at higher risk if:

  • You are age 75 years and older.
  • You are age 60 years or older, and you live in a continuing care or a supportive living facility.

Babies who are born too soon or have certain health conditions, such as lung problems or a weak immune system, are also at high risk of getting very sick or needing care in the hospital because of RSV.

How it spreads

RSV can spread in the following ways:

  • An infected person sneezes, coughs, talks, or even breathes.
  • You breathe in the virus.
  • You touch something that has the virus on it (such as hands or a doorknob), then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose.

RSV can live on surfaces for several hours. It can live on unclean hands for 30 minutes or more. You can spread RSV before symptoms start.

Current as of: November 4, 2024
Author: Communicable Disease Control, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.