Source: Nature
Context: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first-ever respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, developed by UK-based pharmaceutical company GSK, for use in people aged 60 years and older.
About respiratory syncytial virus (RSV):
| Topic | Description |
| What is RSV? | Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, especially in young children and older adults. |
| Transmission | RSV spreads through respiratory secretions, such as from coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces or objects. |
| Symptoms | RSV can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, fever, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. |
| Venerable | Infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk for severe RSV infection. |
| How is RSV diagnosed? | RSV can be diagnosed through a respiratory sample, such as from a nasal or throat swab, that is tested in a laboratory. |
| How is RSV treated? | Treatment for RSV is mainly supportive, such as with fluids, oxygen therapy, and fever reducers. Severe cases may require hospitalization. |
