Illnesses are everywhere these days, and it can seem like an impossible task staying healthy when the flu, COVID-19 and RSV are circulating all around.

Any illness has the potential to make anyone really sick, but older adults need to be aware of certain illnesses, as they can be more vulnerable to severe infection. One of those illnesses that older adults need to be on the lookout for is RSV.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team explains why RSV can be more serious in older adults, so read on to learn more about this stubborn infection.

How Fast Does RSV Spread?

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is an upper respiratory infection that is highly contagious. It travels quickly through populations that spend a lot of time close together, which is why daycare centers, school classrooms and nursing homes frequently experience outbreaks.

It can be spread through direct contact and also through contact with contaminated surfaces. If you live in an assisted living or nursing home, take caution to avoid spending a long time in crowded or communal areas. You should also frequently wash your hands as you move about your building and touch doorknobs, elevator buttons and tables.

Symptoms Common at the Start of an RSV Infection

• Fever
• Runny nose/congestion
• Shallow breathing
• Cough
• Muscle or body aches

Why Does RSV Affect Older Adults More?

Our immune systems tend to weaken as we age, and we lose a bit of our ability to fight off infection as easily. Once you become infected, illnesses can also linger longer or spread faster as our immune systems can’t keep up as efficiently as they used to. That’s what makes RSV so dangerous for people over the age of 60!

If you contract a severe case of RSV, it could spread quickly and create difficulty breathing or even cause respiratory distress. These situations are always considered medical emergencies, so keep a close eye on how you feel and don’t hesitate to reach out for medical help if you can’t take a full breath or are feeling lightheaded.

Signs of a Serious RSV Infection

• Shallow breathing
• Blue skin or fingernails
• Feeling lethargic or extremely tired
• Chest pain

RSV symptoms can get worse really fast. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Louisville for an initial evaluation.