RSV
Based on CDC and WHO guidance, checked against those sources on Oct 12, 2026. Educational information only — not a diagnosis or a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional.
What it is
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. It can be serious for infants and older adults; before RSV immunizations became available, it was the leading cause of hospitalization in U.S. babies.
How it spreads
- Through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and by direct contact such as kissing the face of a child with RSV.
- By touching contaminated surfaces (the virus can survive for hours on hard surfaces) and then the face.
- People are usually contagious for 3–8 days, possibly starting a day or two before symptoms. Some infants and people with weakened immune systems can spread it for 4 weeks or longer.
Symptoms usually start 4–6 days after infection.
Latest official reports
No current CDC travel notices or WHO outbreak reports for this disease in our sources.
Current situation
- 14 of 69 countries with enough data are Elevated or High vs. their own historyWorld Health Organization · Oct 25, 2026
- U.S.: 0 of 55 states at Moderate or above (CDC hospital admission levels)U.S. CDC · Oct 17, 2026
Emergency warning signs
- Trouble breathing, or pauses in breathing (apnea) in an infant
- Not drinking enough fluids (in babies, fewer wet diapers)
- Symptoms getting worse
- In adults: chest pain or pressure, sudden dizziness or confusion, or trouble eating or drinking
Call 911 (U.S.) or your local emergency number.