A common respiratory virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms in adults and older children but can lead to severe respiratory infections, especially in infants and young children.
Inflammation of the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs, often caused by RSV infection, which can result in wheezing and difficulty breathing in young children.
A mass of cells that have fused together, a characteristic feature of RSV infection, forming large, multinucleated cells in the respiratory tract.
The spread of RSV through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, contributing to the contagious nature of the virus.
Periodic increases in RSV infections, often occurring during the fall and winter months, making RSV a seasonal respiratory virus.
The likelihood that an individual, typically infants or older adults with weakened immune systems, may require hospitalization due to severe RSV-related respiratory symptoms.
A monoclonal antibody medication administered to certain high-risk infants to provide temporary protection against severe RSV infections.
The ability of RSV to undergo changes in its surface proteins, making it challenging for the immune system to develop lasting immunity, leading to the possibility of repeated infections.
Babies born before completing 37 weeks of gestation, who are at an increased risk of severe RSV infections due to underdeveloped immune and respiratory systems.
A measure of the amount of oxygen in the blood, often monitored in infants with RSV infection to assess respiratory function and the need for supplemental oxygen.
The blockage or stuffiness in the nasal passages, a common symptom of RSV infection that can contribute to respiratory distress, especially in young children.
The use of a mechanical ventilator to assist with breathing in severe RSV cases, providing respiratory support when the patient’s natural breathing is compromised.