RSV

Virus and disease overview

RSV or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms illness in healthy adults. However, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies and young children and can also be serious in older adults or people with weakened immune systems. Most children are infected with RSV before the age of 2, and experience mild illness; however, in some, cases, RSV infection can lead to serious respiratory problems requiring hospitalisation. In Luxembourg, RSV follows a seasonal pattern, with increased circulation typically from autumn to early spring.

Detection in Wastewater and Public Health Relevance

Infected people shed viral particles through respiratory secretions and faeces, which can enter the sewage system. By analysing wastewater samples, public health authorities can get a clearer picture of the presence and spread of RSV in the community. This information can support targeted screening and prevention efforts and help healthcare providers prepare for a surge in cases, especially in high-risk populations such as infants and the elderly. Wastewater surveillance thus complements clinical data, by providing a broader and earlier indication of RSV activity in the community.