RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), a member of the paramyxovirus family, is characteristic in its distinct seasonal outbreaks observed each year starting in November to December and continuing for approximately three months. Respiratory syncytial virus is the major cause of bronchitis/tracheobronchitis and bronchiolitis, and plays a contributing role in other syndromes such as croup, colds, and pneumonia, especially in infants and young children. In fact, the virus is extremely widespread in children by the age of two, having its most serious effects in infants age one to nine months. Though RSV is possibly the most important viral respiratory pathogen for infants and young children, it has also been shown to occur in adult infections as recurrences of the virus are common.

Please refer to Viral Respiratory Diseases for information on the VRK kit.