SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are common respiratory viruses. These viruses often spread at the same time as the flu virus. They cause similar symptoms like cough, fever, and sore throat. Millions of people get sick from these viruses each year, and they can be life-threatening for many people.
- Age, chronic health conditions, disabilities, lifestyle, race, and ethnicity can all impact someone's risk for severe COVID-19 infection.
- Adults over 50 are at increased risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19. 1
- More than 81% of COVID-19 deaths occur in people over 65. 2
- Infants, children, and adults over 65 or those with chronic medical conditions are at increased risk for severe RSV infection.
- Each year in the U.S., an estimated 60,000 to 160,000 adults over 65 are hospitalized for RSV. 3
- 6,000 to 10,000 people die every year due to RSV infection. 3