RSV causes infections of the upper respiratory tract (like a cold) and the lower respiratory tract (like pneumonia). It is the most frequent cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and children under 2 years of age.

In most children symptoms appear similar to a mild cold. About half the infections result in lower respiratory tract infections and otitis media (ear infection). An RSV infection can range from very mild to life-threatening or even fatal.

Outbreaks of RSV commonly begin in late fall, peak in mid-December through February, and fade out by early spring.

The most effective preventive measure against the spread of RSV is careful and frequent handwashing. Once one child in a group is infected with RSV, spread to others is rapid. Frequently, a child is infectious before symptoms appear.

There is no need to exclude a child from child care unless he or she is not well enough to participate in usual activities. If an adult in a child care facility develops a RSV illness, he or she must be sure that procedures regarding handwashing, hygiene, disposal of tissues and cleaning and disinfection of toys are followed.

Below are some sites on the WWW selected by the HSA as being worthwhile sources of information. They should NOT be relied upon for personal diagnosis or treatment. These sites are provided for general educational aid only, and should not be relied on as a substitute for consultation with your physician. If you have questions, please contact your healthcare provider. HSA does not endorse any of these organizations. This list is not comprehensive

	RSV - New York City Department of Health
	Mayo Clinic
	Cleveland Clinic
	American Medical Association
	Nurse Week
	Association of State and Territorial Directors of Health Promotion and Public Health Education
	Health First