TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT RSV

Older adults are more likely to have serious complications due to RSV because the immune system typically weakens as people age. Adults aged 50-74 with certain health conditions like chronic heart or lung disease are at an increased risk of developing severe RSV disease which may lead to hospitalization.

Adults with certain underlying conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or heart failure are at an increased risk of developing severe illness due to RSV, and RSV can exacerbate these conditions. RSV can also lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia, hospitalization and death.

Symptoms of RSV typically include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, congestion, headache, and fatigue. Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe and can last up to 2 weeks.

RSV can cause symptoms that are similar to other respiratory infections. If you develop cold-like symptoms such as a cough, runny nose, wheezing, or sneezing, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine what illness you may be experiencing.

If you are diagnosed with RSV, ask your healthcare provider about ways to manage your symptoms and what to do if your symptoms do not improve or get worse.

While most people recover from RSV infection in a week or two, it can also post a severe impact on health, especially for certain adults. RSV infection can cause serious complications such as pneumonia or exacerbation of heart failure, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). RSV can also cause severe infections that may lead to hospitalization in adults aged 60 and older, and adults with certain underlying conditions like asthma, COPD, and heart failure.

It’s important to know your risks to help Sideline RSV! Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn if RSV vaccination is appropriate for you.