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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Overview


babyRespiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. Most otherwise healthy people recover from RSV infection in 1 to 2 weeks. However, infection can be severe in some people, such as certain infants, young children, and older adults. In fact, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia in children under 1 year of age in the United States. In addition, RSV is more often being recognized as an important cause of respiratory illness in older adults.


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Learn about Respiratory Syncytial Virus

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among infants and children under 1 year of age.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a contagious viral disease that can lead to serious health problems—especially for young children and older adults.

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Data & Statistics

Chart: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RVS) Season. United States, by Region and Florida

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Fast Facts


 

More on Infection and Incidence

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, 24 Hours/Every Day - cdcinfo@cdc.gov

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