RSV Testing Kits & Vaccines

RSV testing kits are diagnostic tools used to detect the presence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that causes respiratory infections, especially in infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

RSV can cause mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy adults and children. However, it can lead to serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in: Infants (especially under 6 months) Elderly adults (especially over 60 years) People with chronic heart or lung disease Individuals with weakened immune systems

An RSV vaccine is a vaccine designed to protect against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common and sometimes serious cause of respiratory infections, especially in infants, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Prevents RSV infection or reduces its severity Helps protect those most vulnerable to severe RSV disease, potentially reducing hospitalizations and complications

The vaccines use a recombinant protein or a specially designed virus-like particle to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against RSV. This helps the body recognize and fight the virus if exposed.

Adults 60 years and older (after discussions with their healthcare provider) Pregnant women (32–36 weeks) (in certain countries, to help protect their babies after birth) Infants and young children are not currently eligible for RSV vaccines, but may receive monoclonal antibody prophylaxis in high-risk cases

Yes, at-home RSV test kits are now available. These easy-to-use rapid antigen tests use a simple nasal swab to detect RSV in minutes, helping you quickly distinguish between RSV, cold, flu, and COVID-19.

RSV rapid antigen tests are highly accurate, with sensitivity up to 85–95% and specificity over 98%. PCR-based lab tests offer the highest accuracy, but home kits provide convenient, reliable screening when used as directed.

Yes! RSV can be diagnosed using a nasal swab sample, either by a rapid at-home test or with a provider’s PCR or antigen test in a clinic or urgent care.

Absolutely—nasal swab testing is the gold standard for RSV detection, suitable for both at-home and clinical testing.

No, standard COVID-19 tests do NOT detect RSV. RSV-specific tests (some combo kits now test for RSV, COVID-19, and flu from the same swab) are required for RSV diagnosis.

RSV symptoms can overlap with colds, but signs like severe cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, and persistent fever may indicate RSV. Home RSV tests help differentiate between RSV, COVID-19, and flu.

Most people with RSV are contagious for 3–8 days. Immunocompromised people and young children may spread RSV for several weeks.

Yes! Seniors (age 60+) and adults with chronic health conditions are strongly advised to get the RSV vaccine. The CDC recommends it to reduce risk of severe RSV, hospitalization, and complications.

Most healthy seniors, even aged 80+, can receive the RSV vaccine. Contraindications may include severe allergies to vaccine components, certain immune conditions, or if advised by their doctor.

RSV vaccine coverage for seniors varies by insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, private plans) and region. Many seniors may qualify for no-cost or low-cost vaccine programs.

Most common side effects: Soreness or redness at the injection site, mild headache, low-grade fever, fatigue. Rarely: Allergic reactions or severe side effects (seek medical help immediately if trouble breathing, hives, or severe swelling).

Yes—RSV can cause sneezing along with runny nose, cough, congestion, and wheezing, especially in children and older adults.

All three can cause fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue. RSV is more likely to cause wheezing and breathing difficulties in infants and seniors. Use a combo test kit or consult a physician for a definitive diagnosis.

RSV cough is often deep, wet, and persistent. Wheezing, hoarseness, or shortness of breath may be present.

No. RSV is a viral infection; antibiotics do not work unless a secondary bacterial infection develops.

Rest, hydration, and using a humidifier are key. For severe cases, prescription breathing treatments or hospitalization may be needed (especially for infants and seniors).

Yes—RSV can progress to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, particularly in infants, elderly, or people with weak immune systems.

Quarantine for at least 3–8 days after symptoms begin, or until symptom-free for 24 hours. Be especially cautious around the very young, elderly, and immunocompromised.

Supportive care: Rest, fluids, fever reducers (acetaminophen), inhalers or nebulizer (if wheezing). Hospitalization for oxygen or advanced care in severe cases. Antivirals are rarely used except in high-risk hospitalized patients.

In adults, RSV usually feels like a severe cold: Runny nose, persistent cough, low-grade fever, fatigue, and sometimes wheezing or chest discomfort.

FDA-authorized at-home RSV test kits—rapid results in minutes Combo tests for RSV, COVID-19, and flu available RSV vaccines for seniors: proven to reduce hospitalization and severity Guidance on symptoms, home care, and when to seek help Trusted by families, clinics, and caregivers nationwide