Understanding the Similarities and Differences Between Rhinovirus and RSV
Both RSV and rhinovirus are viruses that typically lead to common and mild infections. The majority of the time, symptoms of both resolve on their own in about a week. However, either can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia.
Respiratory viruses are a common cause of many typical illnesses that go around each year, especially in the fall and winter months.
Rhinovirus and RSV are two viruses responsible for many of these infections and missed days of work and school.
Rhinovirus is the virus that is most likely to cause the common cold. RSV causes symptoms very similar to the common cold and is more likely to occur in children.
Both viruses typically cause only mild symptoms and resolve on their own after about a week of rest. However, they can sometimes cause serious complications, such as pneumonia.
Americans see their primary care doctors less often than they did a decade ago. Adults under 65 made nearly 25% fewer visits to primary care providers in 2016 than they did in 2018, according to National Public Radio. In the same time period, the number of adults who went at least a year without visiting a primary care provider increased from 38% to 46%.
Rhinoviruses are a group of viruses that are the most common cause of colds in the United States.
Rhinoviruses can affect the upper respiratory and the lower respiratory tract, but upper respiratory tract infections happen more often.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is another common virus that causes mild symptoms that are similar to a common cold.
Children are more likely to contract RSV than adults, although people of any age can contract this virus. Symptoms are often mild, and most people can recover quickly.
Both RSV and rhinovirus are viruses that cause upper respiratory conditions with similar symptoms. In the majority of cases, both viruses only cause mild illness.
It is possible for either virus to lead to more serious illnesses, including pneumonia.
Although RSV and rhinovirus share many similarities, there are some differences between the two.
For instance, RSV occurs more often in children. Rhinovirus is more likely to lead to headaches and all-over body aches, along with the symptoms it shares with RSV, such as sneezing and a sore throat.
RSV is more likely to have symptoms such as loss of appetite and fever.
Rhinovirus and RSV have similar and different symptoms. Here’s a comparison.
Rhinovirus symptoms
Rhinovirus causes symptoms that can include:
RSV symptoms
RSV symptoms can vary depending on the age of the person with RSV. For instance, symptoms in infants can include:
- irritability
- decreased energy
- decreased activity
- trouble breathing
Rhinovirus and RSV often do not need treatment, but they may cause more severe conditions that may need treatment.
Rhinovirus treatment
Rhinovirus typically causes only mild symptoms. Since this is the case, people with rhinovirus rarely need treatment.
In most cases, steps such as getting additional rest, taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, and making sure to stay hydrated, will be enough to help people with rhinovirus recover at home in about a week.
It’s possible for rhinovirus to cause more serious conditions with more severe symptoms, such as pneumonia. It’s a good idea to make a medical appointment if your symptoms are hard to manage on your own, or if they get worse after a few days, instead of better.
RSV treatment
RSV also usually causes only mild symptoms. Most people, including young children who contract the virus, are able to recover at home without medical treatment.
It can help to rest, take OTC pain and fever reducers, and stay hydrated.
Just like rhinovirus, if you notice RSV symptoms not going away in you or your child, you should reach out to a healthcare professional.
Both rhinoviruses and RSV are common viruses with similar risk factors.
Risk factors for rhinoviruses
Anyone can catch rhinovirus at any time. In fact, it’s common for people to contract rhinovirus a few times each year.
Rhinovirus transmits quickly, especially during peak rhinovirus season (aka cold season). In the United States, this is typical during the fall and winter.
People with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of catching rhinovirus.
Risk factors for RSV
RSV is a very common virus. Although people can contract RSV at any age, it is most common in children. Typically, children get RSV for the first time before they reach their 2nd birthday .
Like rhinovirus, RSV transmits quickly and has its peak season every fall and winter. After young children, older adults are the group most at risk for contracting RSV.
Both rhinoviruses and RSV usually cause very minor illnesses that resolve on their own. Most children and adults who contract a rhinovirus or RSV can usually recover at home without assistance. However, it’s possible for rhinoviruses and RSV to cause more serious complications, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
