RSV in Adults: Why You’re Hearing About It Now
RSV didn’t suddenly show up. We just weren’t paying attention to adult cases until recently — and now we even have a vaccine.
But before we get into RSV, let me take a quick minute to explain how Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) differs from Flu and Pneumonia.
RSV = viral respiratory infection that can turn into pneumonia/bronchitis.
Flu = different virus with predictable yearly patterns
Pneumonia = a condition, not one virus — RSV can cause viral pneumonia.
RSV in adults tends to look like a “bad cold” at first but can quickly progress in high-risk groups.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), severe RSV risk is highest in:
Adults 75+
Adults 50–74 with:
Heart disease
Chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma, ILD)
End-stage kidney disease / hemodialysis
Weakened immune systems
Older adults in congregate or facility care settings
Why Is RSV Suddenly a Big Deal?
RSV didn’t change — awareness did.
It was previously viewed as only a pediatric virus.
Adults weren’t widely tested for it until recent years.
Post-COVID immunity shifts made RSV infections more intense.
Diagnostics got better, so we’re catching more cases.
New vaccines = more public awareness.
We’re finally seeing the full picture.
Let's face it, a 'cold' isn't just a 'cold' in our older adult population. The old addage of '"just let the virus run its course" no longer holds merit. Illnesses such as RSV can quickly change the level of care an older adult needs. Watch for these symptoms.
👩⚕️ When to See the Doctor
Seek medical evaluation if you develop:
Persistent cough
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Chest discomfort
Rapid breathing or confusion
Fever that won’t quit
Urgent symptoms include: blue lips/skin, severe shortness of breath, or fast worsening.
And don't shy away from getting vaccinated, it could save time, money and your LIFE! Follow the CDCs guidelines for getting vaccinated.
💉 When to Get the RSV Vaccine
CDC recommendations:
Everyone 75+ → one dose.
Adults 50–74 with increased risk → one dose.
Best season: late summer through early fall (Aug–Oct).
But if you’re eligible and haven’t received it, it’s okay to get it now.
It’s not an annual vaccine at this time.
Prevention Still Matters
We are in peak cough and cold season, don't make any assumptions about your symptoms; like Flu, RSV is airborne and very contagious. Keep washing those hands, covering your mouth when you cough and clean surfaces with as much vigor as your mother cleaning your face (please use disinfectant not “mom spit” 😝).
If you are caring for an older adult or supporting a loved one with chronic health conditions, understanding infections like RSV — and knowing when to push for testing, treatment, or prevention — matters.
Professional patient advocacy can help families navigate symptoms, vaccination decisions, medical visits, and next steps with confidence.
✨ Stay confident. Stay informed. Stay Taylormade.