What should you know about RSV fever?

Fever is the body’s raised-temperature response to infection. With RSV, it may appear with a blocked or runny nose, cough, reduced appetite, tiredness, and sometimes wheezing. Fever alone cannot confirm RSV, and the same symptom can occur with illnesses such as [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) or [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/). Babies and young children can become dehydrated or develop increased breathing effort even when the temperature is not strikingly high.

Offer regular fluids or breastfeeds and watch for wet nappies or urination. Keep clothing comfortable and avoid overheating. Let the person rest, and use a thermometer consistently if you are tracking changes. Fever medicine may improve comfort when used according to age, weight, and label or clinician guidance; never combine products carelessly. Keep hands clean and avoid close contact with vulnerable people while respiratory symptoms are present.

Get emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, a seizure, collapse, or a child who is difficult to wake. Seek prompt clinical advice when drinking falls, urine becomes much less frequent, the child is worsening, or breathing is fast and effortful. A fever with a new rash, a stiff neck, or marked unusual drowsiness also needs urgent assessment.

Ask how to measure and record temperature, which comfort medicine is suitable, and what hydration signs to watch. Tell the clinician the person’s age, symptom start, fluid intake, urine pattern, breathing changes, and any long-term medical conditions.