- In most people, RSV symptoms resemble a common cold—cough, congestion, runny nose, and stuffy nose.
- For infants experiencing their first RSV infection, the illness can progress to the lower respiratory tract, turning into a “chest cold” rather than just a “head cold.”
- Severe symptoms in babies include wheezing, chest retractions (tugging in at the chest), labored breathing, and difficulty feeding.
- These more serious cases increase the likelihood that medical evaluation and intervention will be needed.
Common RSV Symptoms in Children
For many adults and children, RSV is a common cold with symptoms including cough and nasal congestion. But what are the common symptoms in kids?
Susanne Tanski, MD, MPH, Pediatrics
