A contagious disease that has no vaccine, RSV is a viral disease that will afflict nearly everyone by the time they are just two years old. While not a serious illness itself, it can lead to health problems later on in life.
Symptoms
This infects the lungs and breathing passages of the person who is infected with the virus. Younger kids and infants will get a cough, runny nose, fever, a reduced appetite, and wheezing. Those that are older may get a sore throat and a headache along with their general malaise feeling. Respiratory syncytial virus can lead to things like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
RSV Cases
People are able to get this virus more than once. The number of cases of RSV will tend to be lower in the spring, highest in the winter, and begin its rise in the fall. There is no specific season, these are just trends that are seen in the number of new cases that are brought to healthcare facilities.
Passing on RSV
Any type of water drop that comes from a cough or sneeze can be carrying RSV into the air for others to breathe. This is the most common way of transmitting, however, you can also get it from sharing cups and utensils or other objects from infected people. It is very prevalent in daycares and in schools.
Prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Covering the mouth and nose is a good way to prevent escaping water from coming from anyone affected. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap can also help keep the transmission rate down. Do not kiss an infected person. Wipe down any hard surfaces like doorknobs, shopping carts, and countertops with a disinfectant. Some stores have wipes designed for this.
There is no vaccine for RSV but there is a drug that can help prevent RSV from turning into a more serious infection. The drug is called palivizumab. Taking care to keep a germ free household and washing often can help everyone in the house from catching and transmitting RSV to others.
Source: CDC, RSV
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/RSV/