Though usually mild, RSV infections can be dangerous

In the United States, annual community outbreaks of RSV infections typically occur during late fall, winter and early spring. Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. RSV is an RNA virus, different than the common cold viruses such as rhinovirus and adenovirus. It infects the nose, throat, lungs, and the breathing passages of the upper and lower respiratory system. As the body sends immune cells to virus-infected cells to fight the disease, it causes inflammation in the airways. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults.