Palliser Primary Care Network

RSV: What You Need to Know

Christina Nakahara
October 1, 2026

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily, especially from late fall to early spring. Most people who get RSV have mild symptoms that improve on their own within 1–2 weeks. However, RSV can cause more serious breathing problems, especially in babies, older adults, and people with certain health conditions.

How Does RSV Spread?

RSV spreads through contact with someone who has the virus. It can spread through coughs and sneezes, touching contaminated surfaces, or sharing drinks and other items.

What Are the Symptoms?

Mild symptoms may include:

• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever

More serious symptoms may include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fast breathing
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

In severe cases, RSV can cause low oxygen levels, serious difficulty breathing, and sometimes death.

How Can I Prevent RSV?

You can help prevent the spread of RSV by washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and staying home when sick.

Alberta Health Services recommends one dose of RSV vaccine for adults 60 years and older who live in continuing care or supportive living facilities or who are Indigenous, and for adults aged 70 years and older. Eligible individuals can receive the vaccine free of charge.

If you are not eligible for a publicly funded RSV vaccine, you may be able to pay for it. Talk to your health care provider to find out if vaccination is right for you.

How Is RSV Treated?

There is no antibiotic treatment for RSV because it is a virus. Most people recover at home with rest and plenty of fluids. Fever-reducing medications and saline nasal rinses can help manage symptoms.

When Should I Get Medical Help?

Contact your health care provider or call 811 if your symptoms are getting worse, you develop problems breathing, a worsening cough, a new or higher fever, a rash or other new symptom, or you are not getting better as expected.

Call 911 or go to the emergency department if you think you need emergency care, for example, you are having severe trouble breathing.