Respiratory syncytial virus (sin-SISH-shul VI-rus) (RSV) is a very common virus. RSV causes mild cold-like symptoms in adults and children. However, in high-risk children, like premature infants or babies born with certain heart or lung problems, RSV can become serious and even life-threatening. In fact, RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization for children under 1 year of age. And severe RSV infections may increase the risk of wheezing and asthma-like illness through childhood.
If your baby is at high risk for RSV disease, there may be protective steps you and your doctor can take. Our Guide for Talking to Your Doctor About RSV can help you discuss RSV with your doctor and get your questions answered.
Download guide now (PDF format)
Babies in the following risk categories may be more likely to develop severe RSV disease:
- premature birth (born more than 4 weeks early, with or without lung disease)
- being born with certain kinds of lung disease
- being born with certain kinds of heart problems
- low birth weight (under 5½ pounds)
- having school-aged brothers and sisters
- going to daycare
- family history of asthma
- exposure to tobacco smoke and other air pollutants
- multiple births (for example, twins)
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