Understanding Respiratory Viruses: What You Need to Know

The risk of respiratory illness has been challenging in recent weeks and months. Among the most common culprits are Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the flu, and other respiratory viruses. These illnesses can affect individuals of all ages, but they can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

At Eurofins Viracor, we provide accurate testing and results to help healthcare providers navigate the complexities of respiratory infections. Here’s everything you need to know about RSV and other respiratory viruses.

What is RSV?

RSV is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV primarily affects children but can also impact adults, particularly the elderly. Additionally, RSV symptoms make it difficult to distinguish it from the common cold or other respiratory viruses (like the flu or COVID-19).1

RSV can be dangerous for certain adults. Each year, an estimated 100,000–150,000 adults ages 60 and older in the United States are hospitalized due to RSV. Adults at highest risk for severe RSV disease include:

• Adults ages 75 and older
• Adults with chronic heart or lung disease
• Adults with weakened immune systems
• Adults with certain other underlying medical conditions
• Adults living in nursing homes

Additional Respiratory Viruses to Watch

In addition to RSV, several other viruses can cause respiratory infections. Some of these include:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): While much attention has been given to COVID-19, it’s still important to consider it alongside other respiratory viruses. Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
• Parainfluenza Virus: This virus can cause mild respiratory illness, but in some cases, it can lead to more severe infections like croup, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
• Adenovirus: Known for causing cold-like symptoms, adenoviruses can also lead to bronchitis and pneumonia, particularly in young children.

Symptoms for these viruses can overlap, so distinguishing between them can be challenging based solely on symptoms. Testing can help ensure accurate diagnosis and guide the most appropriate treatment.

Why Testing Matters

Given the similarities in symptoms between RSV and other respiratory viruses, it can be difficult to determine which virus is causing the illness without laboratory testing. At Eurofins Viracor, we offer advanced diagnostic testing to help identify the virus behind a respiratory infection.

Conclusion

Respiratory illnesses like RSV and other viruses are serious health concerns, especially during the winter months. At Eurofins Viracor, we aim to provide the provider with accurate, timely, and reliable diagnostic testing to help ensure the right care for every patient.

For more information on our testing services or to learn more about respiratory viruses, reach out to us today!

Citations:

1. “About RSV.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/index.html. Accessed 26 Feb. 2025.

LEARN MORE about our RSV testing. ?? Eurofins Viracor Annals ?? READ MORE