is a secondary bacterial infection contagious :: Article Creator Can RSV Have Long-Lasting Effects In Adults? RSV infection typically gets better within a couple of weeks. However, it may cause long-term cause damage to your lungs, airways, or heart, which lasts after the infection has passed. Sometimes, this damage may be permanent. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of acute respiratory infections in children and adults. It may cause mild cold-like symptoms or more serious illness, including severe bronchiolitis or pneumonia. RSV infection tends to cause more severe symptoms in young children, but it can also cause serious illness in older children and adults. The risk of serious illness is higher for adults who are 65 years or older, as well as those with chronic lung disease, heart disease, or compromised immune systems. In some cases, RSV may cause tissue and organ damage that lasts for several weeks, months, or lon...