Not only have COVID-19 rates spiked again, but another respiratory illness has begun making its way into our lives—RSV.

RSV is certainly not as contagious or dangerous as COVID-19, but it’s still something to be on the lookout for—especially as your kids are heading back to school. Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team provides further information on RSV below, so keep reading.

How Serious Is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common, contagious virus that causes infections of the respiratory tract.

RSV most commonly affects children. In fact, it’s so common that most children have been infected with the virus by age 2. RSV can also infect adults, but its symptoms are mild and typically mimic the common cold. Symptoms are often much more severe among infants and young children. We’ve listed the most common RSV symptoms below.

Common RSV Symptoms

• Congested or runny nose
• Dry cough
• Low-grade fever
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Headache

Should I Get a Rapid Test?

Because respiratory illnesses like RSV are on the rise, it’s important to get tested if you begin to experience symptoms of any of these illnesses. Many conditions, including COVID-19, share overlapping symptoms.

Our rapid test kits at AFC Urgent Care Louisville provide accurate results in 15 minutes or less, and you don’t even need an appointment to get tested! Remember to exercise the health-safety precautions that we’ve listed below before getting tested if you believe you’re sick.

Health-Safety Precautions

• Wear a mask in public.
• Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
• If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible.
• Cover your mouth with a tissue or elbow when you sneeze or cough.

Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Louisville location today to get a rapid test! We’re here for you now and always.