4 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About RSV Testing Q&A

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, is highly contagious, being spread through droplets when a person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with a contaminated surface. The virus can survive on hard surfaces for many hours, making it easy to pick it up inadvertently. RSV season often peaks during the fall and winter months, aligning with the common cold and flu season, which heightens its ability to spread rapidly among communities, particularly affecting young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Understanding the transmission dynamics of RSV is pivotal to adopting effective prevention strategies to mitigate its spread.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus testing typically involves the collection of a sample from the respiratory tract. A healthcare professional may use a nasal swab or aspirate, which is a method of suctioning secretions from the nose, to obtain the sample. The collected material is then analyzed using various techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which can detect the virus’s genetic material, or an antigen test that looks for specific proteins associated with the virus. These tests are known for their sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing RSV. The turnaround time for results can be as rapid as a few hours with some PCR tests, offering timely guidance for treatment decisions. It is critical for individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with an RSV infection to undergo testing, thereby ensuring the correct diagnosis and a suitable course of action.

The common cold and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) share similar symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, and nasal congestion, but there are distinct differences that are particularly important to note. RSV often begins with mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can progress to more severe respiratory issues like bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in young children and older adults. Unlike a cold that largely affects the upper respiratory tract, RSV can lead to lower respiratory tract infections, resulting in a higher likelihood of wheezing, difficulty breathing, and rapid respiratory rates. Furthermore, RSV symptoms can include a distinctive, high-pitched wheezing sound and may be accompanied by a fever. The severity of the symptoms and the risk of developing severe infections make RSV a more concerning illness for certain populations.

At Express Healthcare, RSV testing is executed with precision and care to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Upon exhibiting symptoms suggestive of an RSV infection, patients are promptly accommodated in a sanitized, dedicated testing area to minimize the risk of contagion. A trained healthcare professional, donning appropriate personal protective equipment, will carry out a thorough assessment and collect a respiratory specimen using a nasal swab technique. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a specialized swab into the nostril, reaching the nasopharyngeal region, to obtain an adequate sample containing viral particles for analysis. The sample is then meticulously handled and sent to our on-site laboratory, where state-of-the-art molecular diagnostic tools, such as PCR testing, are utilized to identify the presence of RSV with high accuracy. Patients are typically informed of the test results within a few hours due to the expedited testing process at Express Healthcare, which enables prompt and appropriate medical interventions when necessary.

If you or a loved one are showing symptoms indicative of an RSV infection or just have concerns about respiratory health, do not hesitate to reach out to Express Healthcare. Our team is ready to offer the support and expertise you need for peace of mind and effective treatment. We encourage you to call us directly or use our convenient online booking system to schedule an appointment. Your health is our highest priority, and we are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care in these challenging times. We are conveniently located at 4701 Melbourne Place College Park, MD 20740. We serve patients from College Park MD, New Carrollton MD, Berwyn Heights MD, White Oak MD, Seabrook MD, Laurel MD, Springdale MD, Mitchellville MD, and surrounding areas.