MAURICE, La. (KLFY) -- A virus often mistaken for the common cold is on the rise and physicians want to make sure you know the signs and symptoms and what to do to prevent getting sick.

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. According to the CDC, RSV symptoms make it difficult to distinguish it from the common cold or other respiratory viruses like the flu or COVID-19. 

Dr. Kali Broussard, a physician in Maurice who specializes in pediatrics & pediatric infectious diseases, says this holiday and winter season RSV is on the rise and she's seeing it mostly in children and infants.

"It would cause a cough congestion, runny nose, and in the little kids, it will cause them to have trouble breathing," Broussard said. "It's similar to the common cold, and that it causes similar symptoms, but it often causes more lower respiratory tract symptoms, especially in young infants."

Broussard said RSV infects the lower airways and causes more mucus production in them.

"It becomes much more difficult for them to move air and actually oxygenate," she said.

RSV is most prevalent between the months November and March. Because RSC causes a buildup of mucus in the airways, Broussard said the best way to treat RSV if diagnosed is with supportive care. That includes using saline drops in the nose, suctioning with a bulb or a mouth suction device, or even using an electric suction. She also said RSV can last anywhere from five to seven days with the potential of a lingering cough up to eight weeks.

Although contagious, Broussard said there are ways to prevent and decrease the chance of being infected.

"The best way is going to be hand hygiene," she said. "So washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after you do anything with food touching your face, avoid big crowds when you have a young infant, and avoid big crowds when if you're sick."

Unlike at-home COVID and flu tests, home RSV testing is not available. If you suspect you or someone you know has RSV, the best way to find out is by seeking medical attention for in-office testing.

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