What are common symptoms of RSV infection in infants?

The common symptoms of RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) infection in infants primarily include cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. RSV is a significant cause of respiratory infections in young children, particularly affecting those under two years of age. The virus causes inflammation of the airways, leading to these respiratory symptoms. Coughing can vary from a mild, dry cough to a more persistent one, and wheezing indicates narrowing of the airways, which can make breathing difficult. Difficulty breathing might manifest as an increased rate of respiration, retractions of the chest wall, or nasal flaring, signaling respiratory distress.

In contrast, other options list symptoms that are not primarily associated with RSV. For example, fever, nausea, and vomiting are more common in gastrointestinal illnesses or infections rather than RSV. Similarly, sore throat, runny nose, and headache could indicate a variety of upper respiratory infections, not specifically RSV. Lastly, fatigue, rash, and diarrhea are also not typical signs of RSV infection, as the infection primarily affects the respiratory system rather than presenting with systemic symptoms like rash or gastrointestinal distress.