It can also be transmitted by hands and contaminated surfaces. It most commonly occurs in the fall and winter months. Symptoms usually begin 4-6 days after being exposed. Treatment Most often, RSV infections resolve on their own and treatment of mild symptoms is not necessary. Ribavirin may be used to treat the infection in the first few days after symptoms appear.
Ribavirin is used only in the high risk population or in cases of serious illness.
Antibiotics are not effective against the virus RSV, but may be used for secondary bacterial infections caused by the virus, such as pneumonia. Frequent handwashing among family members may help prevent the spread of infection. Sneezing and coughing into a single tissue and disposing of it immediately helps decrease environmental contamination. Wash toys used by children with cold symptoms. Children should be excluded from day care and play groups until they are feeling up to participating in activities.