Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages. While it can infect people of all ages, it poses a particularly severe threat to older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions. As we age, our immune system naturally weakens, leaving us more vulnerable to infections like RSV. This virus is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality among older populations, leading to hospitalizations and even life-threatening complications in severe cases.
RSV is often mistaken for a cold or the flu, but it can quickly escalate to more severe illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchitis in older adults. Given that RSV shares many symptoms with other respiratory infections, early detection and intervention are critical for reducing its impact. In this article, we will explore the increased risk that RSV poses to older adults, including prevention strategies and treatment options to help protect this vulnerable group.
