Respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV, is a common infection that can impact older adults.1 Estimated to affect about 100,000 to 150,000 adults over 60 per year2, this viral illness can be dangerous for seniors—especially those with underlying conditions. This virus affects the lungs and breathing passages, leading to various symptoms, such as a runny nose, congestion, fever, and cough.
What does an RSV rash look like?
Although rare, RSV rashes can sometimes occur in adults. They typically appear as small red or pink spots, which can be raised or flat. These spots are unlikely to cause itching or pain. Rashes generally start on the face, back, or chest and can spread to other body areas, like the arms or legs, over time. Since an RSV rash does not generally cause itchiness, many patients do not notice it for quite some time.
RSV rashes tend to go away on their own in a few days to a week. While the rash can appear alarming, rashes associated with RSV are generally not a cause for major concern.1
Why can RSV cause a rash in some people?
Every person will experience different symptoms of RSV, which is also true of other viral illnesses. The body has to work hard to fight off the virus, which can cause some people to develop a rash.
Although this immune system response may occur in a small number of adults, most have other, more common symptoms. Mild respiratory symptoms, such as congestion or a sore throat, are more common symptoms of RSV.
What makes someone predisposed to get a rash from RSV?
Sometimes, patients with RSV develop a rash as part of their immune system’s attempt to overcome the virus. Older adults are less likely to get a rash from RSV than children, but it can still occur. In addition, adults who have another viral illness at the same time, such as the flu, may be more likely to develop a rash with RSV. However, this doesn’t always occur and differs from patient to patient.
In general, adults with weakened immune systems or those ages 75 or older are most at risk for severe RSV.3 Other risk factors include heart or lung diseases or other underlying conditions.
Is my rash from RSV?
Since a rash is not a commonly known side effect of RSV, patients who develop a rash may not know the cause of the rash. Rashes from RSV can look like many other rashes caused by other illnesses. In most cases, rashes caused by RSV will develop about one to three days after other respiratory symptoms have already occurred. Patients typically have symptoms like a fever or a cough before developing a rash.
Rashes that present before respiratory symptoms are possible but are less likely to be caused by the RSV virus. Having any rashes examined by a medical professional for diagnosis is always a good idea. If your rash is itchy or painful, it may also be caused by another condition unrelated to RSV.1
How to prevent a rash from RSV
RSV prevention is key for adults aged 60 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults get the RSV vaccine.3 Getting the RSV vaccine can reduce the risk of hospitalization associated with RSV and prevent the lower respiratory tract disease caused by the illness. Although many adults who get RSV recover on their own with mild symptoms, the disease can lead to pneumonia in some people.
RSV can also lead to worsening of other medical conditions for patients with compromised immune systems or chronic diseases. Based on your medical history, discussing your eligibility for RSV vaccines with your WellMed provider is a good idea.
While there is no way to prevent the rash from RSV, taking measures to prevent the spread of RSV in general is essential. Practicing good health and hygiene habits, such as washing hands frequently, is important. Hand sanitizer is a good alternative when warm water and soap are unavailable. Other ways to prevent the spread of RSV include:
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has symptoms
- Avoid tight, crowded places
- Improve air quality with fresh air or air purifiers
- Frequently disinfect surfaces
What to do if you have a rash and you think it’s from RSV
Contact your health care provider if you suspect your rash may be from RSV. RSV rashes are uncommon, so a medical professional must examine the rash. A proper medical exam can help rule out other potential causes of your rash and ensure you get the appropriate treatment.
If your rash is determined to be from the RSV treatment, your provider will likely recommend waiting to see if it will resolve independently. Most rashes from RSV do not require treatment and naturally subside as your body fights off the virus. Other treatment may be recommended if your doctor suspects RSV does not cause the rash. Your doctor may confirm with a rapid RSV antigen test, which tests for RSV antigens from your nose.
When to seek medical care
Adults experiencing mild symptoms from RSV, such as a cough or sneezing, should rest and drink plenty of fluids. In these instances, the virus will need to run its course. However, individuals with more severe symptoms or underlying conditions should seek medical care.4 In addition, seek immediate medical care if you experience any severe RSV symptoms such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish skin (signs of oxygen deprivation)
- Symptoms that are worsening
- Signs of dehydration
References
1. Verywell Health. “RSV and Rash: Symptoms, Link, and Treatment.” Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.verywellhealth.com/rsv-and-rash-symptoms-link-and-treatment-8606387.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Older Adults and RSV.” Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “RSV Vaccines for Older Adults.” Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/vaccines/older-adults.html#:~:text=CDC%20recommends%20everyone%20ages%2075,late%20summer%20and%20early%20fall.
4. American Lung Association. “RSV Treatment.” Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/rsv/treatment.
