RSV: Risk of Complications Topic Overview Back to top With
respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, there is an
increased risk of having complications, especially in certain
babies and young children and in adults older than 65. Babies
and young children - Babies younger than 6 months, especially
those born early. - Children who have existing heart or lung
disease. Conditions that put babies and young children at higher
risk for problems include: - Congenital heart disease. - Chronic
lung disease (bronchopulmonary dysplasia) and cystic fibrosis. -
An impaired immune system, which can involve various health
factors. For example, having a severe chronic illness, such as
cancer, can affect the immune system. And certain medicines,
such as chemotherapy or steroids, suppress the immune system. -
Exposure to tobacco smoke. If your young child has a health
condition, your doctor may recommend medicine to help prevent
problems from RSV. Adults older than 65 have an increased risk
for complications following infe