How long is RSV contagious? Key facts and prevention tips.
It’s the season of sniffles, coughs and runny noses. But what happens when it’s more than just a cold? Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, spreads quickly, especially among kids and older adults. Understanding how long RSV is contagious and its symptoms can help keep your family safe.
Let’s break down the facts and share easy tips to stop RSV in its tracks.
How long is RSV contagious? Understanding the timeline.
RSV is very contagious, especially during the first few days of infection. Here’s a simple timeline:
- Before symptoms start: RSV can spread a day or two before you even feel sick.
- During symptoms: The virus is most contagious when symptoms like coughing or sneezing are at their worst, usually for 3 to 8 days.
After symptoms improve: RSV can still spread for up to 2 weeks in some cases.
Young children and people with weak immune systems may stay contagious even longer. That’s why it’s important to take precautions early on.
Key symptoms of RSV during its contagious period.
- Runny nose
- Coughing or sneezing
- Fever (low-grade)
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Loss of appetite
In babies, RSV might show up as fussiness, poor feeding, or short, quick breaths. If breathing problems get severe, seek medical help right away.
Tips to prevent spreading RSV to others.
Stopping the spread of RSV is easier when you know the right steps to take. Since RSV spreads through coughs, sneezes and touching surfaces, good hygiene and healthy habits go a long way.
Here are some simple tips to protect yourself and others:
- Wash your hands often: Scrub your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Encourage kids to do the same.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to block droplets. Throw tissues away immediately and wash up.
- Avoid close contact: If you or someone else is sick, avoid hugs, handshakes and shared items like cups or utensils.
- Keep surfaces clean: Disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, phones and toys regularly.
- Stay home when sick: If you or your child feels under the weather, rest at home until symptoms improve. This keeps others safe, especially those with weaker immune systems.
- Be mindful around infants and older adults: RSV can be more serious for babies, older adults and people with health problems. Take extra care to keep them safe.
Following these simple steps can slow the spread of RSV and protect the people you care about. If symptoms worsen or you’re unsure what to do, CityMD urgent care is here to help. Walk in anytime for expert care and peace of mind.
When to visit CityMD for RSV care.
If you or your child are showing symptoms of RSV that seem to worsen, don’t wait. CityMD urgent care is here to provide quick and reliable care. Whether you’re dealing with breathing trouble, persistent fever, or other concerns, our team is ready to help you feel better fast.
Walk in today—no appointment needed—and let CityMD help you breathe easier.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.