RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common virus that affects the lungs or respiratory tract. In adults and children, RSV can be quite serious, especially if you have a pre-existing lung condition or are immunocompromised. In fact, RSV can be life-threatening in young children and people with weakened immune systems. If you or your child has been around someone who has RSV and is showing symptoms of it – including a persistent runny nose or cough – contact your doctor immediately and get tested. 

Treatment and prevention are both important when dealing with RSV. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has created a guide around RSV, what you should know about it, how to test for it, and prevention.

Symptoms Of RSV

• Cold like symptoms
• Fever
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

How to Prevent RSV in Infants and Children

RSV is most contagious among children because of poor hygiene. This makes it a potential threat for adults with weaker immune systems as they can easily spread RSV to those who are immunocompromised. 

The best way to prevent RSV is through proper hygiene and frequent hand washing. This includes using disinfectants to clean surfaces and toys regularly, especially during cold and flu season. We also highly suggest avoiding holiday gatherings if you or your child is sick or someone at the holiday party is sick.

It’s better to say no, or to tell uncle Jimmy not to come if he is sick, either. You can never be too sure.

How to test for RSV

There are multiple ways to test for the virus. Your doctor will likely do a blood test or a nasal swab test. If the results are positive, your doctor may suggest a chest X-ray to confirm. If you’re unsure whether your child or grandparent has RSV or another virus, ask your doctor to run tests to rule out other potential infections like the flu or COVID. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis, because some viruses can be treated with antibiotics. 

When in doubt, get tested. Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care West Springfield offers the nasal swab test for RSV.

Can RSV Be Treated At-Home?

The best treatment for RSV is prevention, followed by good hygiene and proper hydration. If you or a loved one contracts the RSV virus you can try OTC medication or humidifiers. But infants or older age groups with serious RSV infections may need immediate medical attention to help them fight the infection.

Unsure If It’s RSV? Come Get Tested At AFC Urgent Care West Springfield

Keep in mind that infants and children are at a high risk for contracting the virus. But, adults can get it, too! The best way to prevent RSV is through good hygiene and frequent hand washing, and avoiding people who are sick. If you’re confused about all the winter viruses or whether or not you or your child have RSV, then you can get tested for it at AFC Urgent Care West Springfield. 

We offer the nasal swab test for RSV 7 days a week. You can walk-in or make an appointment online.