Respiratory infections often share similar symptoms, making them difficult to differentiate — especially when they cause severe coughing and breathing issues. Among the most commonly confused illnesses are respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough (pertussis), both of which can affect children and adults. Understanding their differences is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
In this guide, we will break down RSV vs. whooping cough, how they compare to croup, their symptoms in adults and the best treatment options. We’ll cover the following key topics:
- What Is RSV?
- What Is Whooping Cough?
- RSV vs. Whooping Cough in Adults: How Symptoms Differ
- What Is Croup?
- Croup vs. Whooping Cough vs. RSV: How to Tell the Difference
- RSV vs. Croup Symptoms
- RSV vs. Whooping Cough Vaccine vs. Croup Vaccine: What’s Available?
- Treatment and Prevention Tips for RSV and Whooping Cough
What Is RSV?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the lungs and respiratory tract. It is one of the leading causes of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and can also pose a serious risk to older adults. RSV in adults often resembles a common cold but can lead to complications in high-risk individuals.
RSV Symptoms in Adults
- Runny nose
- Cough (mild to severe)
- Low-grade fever
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Severe cases of RSV can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, or respiratory failure.
What Is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It leads to violent coughing fits that can last for weeks. The hallmark symptom is a “whooping” sound when gasping for air after a coughing spell.
Whooping Cough Symptoms
- Severe, uncontrollable coughing fits
- Whooping sound after coughing
- Vomiting after coughing
- Exhaustion due to intense coughing
RSV vs. Whooping Cough in Adults: How Symptoms Differ
| Feature | RSV in Adults | Whooping Cough in Adults |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Viral (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) | Bacterial (Bordetella pertussis) |
| Main Symptom | Wheezing, shortness of breath | Severe coughing fits |
| Cough Type | Persistent, sometimes wheezing | Intense, followed by a “whoop” |
| Fever? | Low-grade or absent | Usually absent |
| Treatment | Supportive care | Antibiotics |
| Prevention | Handwashing, avoiding exposure | Tdap vaccine |
What Is Croup?
Croup is a viral respiratory infection that causes inflammation in the upper airways. It commonly affects young children and is characterized by a barking cough and stridor (a high-pitched breathing sound). It’s usually caused by the parainfluenza virus, though other viruses like RSV or influenza can also be involved.
Croup vs. Whooping Cough vs. RSV: How to Tell the Difference
- Croup: Barking cough and noisy breathing (stridor)
- RSV: Wheezing, shortness of breath, and cold-like symptoms
- Whooping Cough: Intense coughing fits with a “whoop” sound
RSV vs. Croup Symptoms
| Feature | RSV | Croup |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Viral (RSV) | Viral (Parainfluenza, RSV, Influenza) |
| Main Symptom | Wheezing, shortness of breath | Barking cough, difficulty breathing |
| Cough Type | Persistent | Loud, barking |
| Stridor? | No | Yes |
| Fever? | Low-grade or absent | Mild |
| Treatment | Supportive care | Supportive care, steroids if severe |
| Prevention | Handwashing, RSV vaccine | Hand hygiene, flu & RSV vaccine |
RSV vs. Whooping Cough Vaccine vs. Croup Vaccine: What’s Available?
RSV Vaccine
- Approved for older adults and pregnant women
- Helps prevent hospitalization and complications
- Not yet routine for young children, but monoclonal antibodies like nirsevimab are available
Whooping Cough Vaccine (DTaP/Tdap)
- DTaP for children, Tdap booster for teens and adults
- Pregnant women should receive Tdap during each pregnancy
Croup Vaccine?
No standalone vaccine exists for croup. However, the flu and RSV vaccines may reduce the risk of croup caused by related viruses.
Treatment and Prevention Tips for RSV and Whooping Cough
RSV Treatment
- Hydration and nasal suctioning (especially in infants)
- Fever management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Oxygen therapy and nebulizers for severe cases
RSV Prevention
- RSV vaccine for high-risk groups
- Monoclonal antibodies for high-risk infants
- Good hygiene and avoiding close contact during RSV season
Whooping Cough Treatment
- Antibiotics (azithromycin, erythromycin, clarithromycin)
- Supportive care — fluids, rest, hospital care for infants
Whooping Cough Prevention
- Vaccination (DTaP, Tdap)
- Early antibiotics for exposed individuals
- Avoiding contact with infected persons
Get Expert Care at Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln
Distinguishing RSV from pertussis can be challenging. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, especially in infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
At Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln, our providers offer fast, reliable diagnosis and care for respiratory illnesses. From symptom management to advanced treatment, we ensure timely and professional care without long ER wait times.
Walk in today or schedule an appointment online for expert care.