RSV Detection and Antibiotic Prescribing

Most respiratory tract infections are viral and self-limiting; however, diagnostic uncertainty, particularly in primary care, continues to drive antibiotic overprescribing.Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of infection across all age groups, typically presenting with mild, coldlike symptoms during the fall and winter.In some cases, RSV infection progresses to severe lower respiratory tract disease, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, with infants younger than 6 months, those born prematurely, and individuals with underlying medical conditions at highest risk of Open Access.