How can you tell the difference between a common cold and RSV?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

The common cold and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) share many symptoms, including runny nose, cough, sneezing, and mild fever. However, RSV is typically more serious and often causes lower respiratory tract issues such as wheezing, rapid breathing, and shortness of breath. These severe symptoms are especially common in infants, young children, and adults over 65, who face a higher risk of complications like bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Because symptoms can overlap, it's easy to mistake one for the other—delaying care when it matters most. If you or a loved one is experiencing respiratory symptoms, don't guess. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your symptoms and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if cold or RSV causes symptoms Discover what your symptoms most likely mean Find out if you need care today See OTC options for cold symptoms Find a doctor for cold or RSV Understand home remedies for cold relief Check if symptoms suggest RSV or cold

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Explanation

The common cold and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) can be hard to tell apart because they share symptoms like a runny nose, coughing, and sneezing. However, RSV can be more serious, particularly for infants and older adults.

Key Differences

Severity of Symptoms: RSV often causes more severe symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, and a high fever. These are less common with a typical cold.
Age Group Affected: RSV is particularly dangerous for babies and older adults. In these groups, it can lead to serious breathing problems and even hospitalization.
Duration: While both illnesses can last for about a week, RSV symptoms can linger longer and become more severe over time.

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms, especially difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention. Not sure whether your symptoms indicate a cold, RSV, or something else? Try our free AI symptom checker to help determine what might be causing your symptoms. Always remember that while a cold is usually mild, RSV can be much more serious.

(References)

La EM, Bunniran S, Garbinsky D, Reynolds M, Schwab P, Poston S, & Harrington L. (2024). Respiratory syncytial virus knowledge, attitudes, and .... Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 38297921.
Tyrrell DA, Cohen S, & Schlarb JE. (1993). Signs and symptoms in common colds - PubMed - NIH. Epidemiology and infection, 8394240.
Wörner J, Jöhr M, Berger TM, & Christen P. (2009). [Infections with respiratory syncytial virus. Underestimated .... Der Anaesthesist, 19672564.

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