RSV and asthma: What parents need to know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on October 17th, 2025.

You may have heard of RSV more often in the last few years, a virus that impacts younger children and infants, sometimes causing hospitalization or severe illness. If your child has asthma, respiratory viruses may be an even bigger concern. 

Here is everything you need to know about RSV and asthma in kids to help keep your child healthy.

What is RSV, and how does it affect children?

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common virus that causes respiratory tract infections, particularly in children and older or immunocompromised adults. It can affect people of all ages, but is most likely to cause serious complications in children who are 12 months or younger. 

Most children will get RSV at least once before they turn two, typically from exposure at daycare or school. RSV is more severe in younger children because they have small, narrow airways and a less developed immune system. 

The link between RSV and asthma symptoms

Research has found a significant connection between asthma and RSV if an infant is infected within the first year of life. The Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s INSPIRE observational study tracked nearly 2,000 infants and found that those who remained uninfected with RSV in their first year had a 26% lower risk of asthma by age five.

RSV bronchiolitis in infancy is also associated with recurrent wheezing or asthma well into childhood and early adulthood. Additionally, if a child already has asthma, an RSV infection could increase their risk for more severe symptoms.

How to manage asthma during RSV infections

If your child has asthma and gets RSV, the first thing you may want to do is speak to their healthcare provider. In order to prevent symptoms from getting worse, their provider may recommend a temporary adjustment in their medication.

Since RSV infection can make asthma symptoms worse, it is important to monitor your child closely if they have RSV and asthma. Be sure they continue to take any prescription medications as directed, especially inhalers, to keep inflammation at bay. 

Typical at-home care can help your child recover as well. Be sure your child stays hydrated and gets plenty of rest. Also, avoid any asthma triggers that can make symptoms worse, like smoke or dust.

Signs of RSV in children with asthma

The symptoms of RSV in a child with asthma will be similar to those of a child without asthma; they just may be more severe or get worse faster. 

Signs of RSV include:

• Cough with wheezing
• Decreased appetite
• Rapid breathing
• Runny nose 
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

If your child is having severe difficulty breathing or their lips turn blue, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. 

Prevention tips for RSV and asthma flare-ups

Protecting a child from RSV and mitigating worsening asthma symptoms involves taking steps to prevent infection and bolster the immune system. This includes:

• Avoiding contact with people who are ill
• Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
• Eating a balanced diet
• Exercise regularly
• Getting enough rest
• Practicing hand hygiene
• Staying up to date on vaccines
  

For those at high risk, speak to your healthcare provider about an RSV vaccine or monoclonal antibody treatments, which are recommended for certain groups. 

When to seek medical help for RSV and asthma

Call your child’s healthcare provider or seek medical attention if symptoms start to interfere with normal breathing or daily activities. Some warning signs include:

• Blue lips or fingernails
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty speaking
• Fever of over 104
• Flaring nostrils
• More frequent need for inhalers
• Rapid breathing
• Signs of dehydration
• Severe wheezing
• Unusual sleepiness

Emergency care is essential if breathing becomes very difficult, symptoms escalate suddenly, or there are any signs of low oxygen. For anyone with asthma, early medical intervention during an RSV infection can prevent complications and reduce the risk of hospitalization.

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FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about RSV and asthma in kids.

Can adults with asthma get RSV from children?

Yes, adults with asthma can get RSV from children since the virus spreads easily through close contact, coughing and contaminated surfaces.

How long does RSV typically last in children with asthma?

RSV usually lasts 1-2 weeks, but in children with asthma, symptoms like wheezing or coughing may linger longer.

Are children with asthma at higher risk for hospitalization due to RSV?

Yes, children with asthma are at higher risk of hospitalization because RSV can trigger severe flare-ups and breathing difficulties.

Can RSV lead to long-term effects on a child’s asthma?

Yes, RSV can make asthma worse by increasing airway reactivity and may contribute to more frequent or severe asthma symptoms.

Are there vaccines or medications to prevent RSV?

Yes, RSV vaccines are available for pregnant women, which can protect infants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends monoclonal antibody treatments for infants and children at high risk.

References:

1. https://news.vumc.org/2023/04/24/study-finds-early-rsv-infection-linked-to-significantly-increased-risk-of-asthma-in-children/
2. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/rsv-in-children-what-parents-need-to-know/2022/11
3. https://aafa.org/asthma/asthma-triggers-causes/respiratory-infections-flu-cold-asthma/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/
4. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/hcp/vaccine-clinical-guidance/infants-young-children.html