Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms. It can cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia and may be serious for young babies, older adults and people with heart, lung or immune system conditions.
Symptoms
- A runny or blocked nose
- Coughing and sneezing
- A temperature
- Wheezing, faster breathing or difficulty feeding
- Tiredness or reduced appetite
Very young babies may be irritable, less active or have pauses in breathing without obvious cold symptoms.
When to Get Emergency Help
Call your local emergency number if a baby or child has pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe difficulty breathing, is limp, cannot be woken normally or is not responding as usual. Emergency assessment is also needed for severe breathing difficulty in an adult.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Get prompt advice if a baby is feeding much less than usual, has fewer wet nappies, is breathing faster, has worsening symptoms or is under three months old with a temperature. People at higher risk of severe illness should seek advice early.
Care and Treatment
Most infections improve with rest, fluids and suitable treatment for discomfort. Offer babies smaller feeds more often and keep them upright when awake if this helps breathing. Antibiotics do not treat RSV because it is a virus. Hospital care may include oxygen, help with fluids or breathing support.
Do not give cough or cold medicines to babies or young children unless a qualified healthcare professional recommends them.
Prevention
Wash hands, clean frequently touched surfaces, cover coughs and keep newborn babies away from people with cold symptoms when possible. Avoid tobacco smoke. Vaccination or preventive antibody treatment may be offered to eligible groups under local health guidance.
Sources
Reviewed 28 August 2026.