What You Need to Know About RSV This Winter
February 27 • 2026
What You Need to Know About RSV This Winter
Did you know that RSV is one of the most searched illnesses during the winter months? As temperatures drop and respiratory infections rise, it’s important to understand what RSV is, how it spreads, and how you can protect yourself and your family.
RSV is one of the top winter illnesses. Learn more about what you need to know to protect your family with Dr. Kim Nguyen.
What Is RSV?
RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It’s a very common respiratory infection that affects the lungs and breathing passages. While anyone can get RSV, it’s especially important to watch for symptoms in:
- Infants and young children
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
For many healthy adults, RSV may feel like a mild cold, but for more vulnerable groups, it can lead to more serious complications.
Common RSV Symptoms
RSV often starts like any other respiratory virus. Symptoms can include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Decreased appetite
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing (more common in infants or older adults)
While mild cases typically resolve on their own, RSV can develop into bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in babies and seniors.
How to Prevent RSV
The good news: you can take simple steps to reduce your risk of infection.
- Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—especially after being out in public.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals. RSV spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
- Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. There are now RSV vaccines available for:
- Older adults
- Pregnant patients (to protect newborns)
- Certain high-risk infants
- Ask your Aylo Health provider if these vaccines are right for you or your family.
- Stay home when sick. Even if symptoms feel mild, staying home prevents spreading RSV to vulnerable groups.
When to Seek Care
If you or your family experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Dehydration
- High or persistent fever
- Worsening cough
- Wheezing
It’s important to get medical care right away.
And if you think you may have RSV, or just want to be sure, stop by Aylo Health. Our providers can evaluate your symptoms, offer testing when needed, and help you start feeling better as quickly as possible.
RSV is common during the winter season, but with the right information and care, you can stay ahead of it. Whether you’re managing symptoms or looking for preventive guidance, our team is ready to support your family’s health at locations all over Atlanta and beyond.