Are young children and older adults more susceptible to complications from viral infections?

Yes, young children and older adults are more susceptible to serious complications from viral infections compared to healthy adults. This is due to several factors, including the weakened immune systems of these age groups and the presence of chronic conditions that may increase the severity and impact of the infection on the body. For example, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause serious lung infections such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children and older adults [2].

Viruses spread in various ways, including respiratory droplets, touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes, through contaminated food or water, or insect bites [1].

Why are young children more susceptible?

Young children, especially infants, face an increased risk of complications from viral infections. This risk is because their immune systems may not yet be fully developed, making them less able to fight viruses effectively [2]. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause serious lung infections such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children [2]. RSV symptoms in very young infants may appear as irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties, and severe cases may require hospitalization [2]. Children may also be more susceptible to viral infections such as Adenovirus, which can cause a wide range of symptoms ranging from colds to conjunctivitis and acute gastroenteritis [3].

Why are older adults more susceptible?

Older adults face an increased risk of viral infection complications due to age-related immune system decline, in addition to higher rates of chronic conditions such as heart or lung disease [2]. These conditions make them more prone to severe infections that may require hospitalization. For instance, adults aged 65 and older are particularly at risk for severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection [2]. Adenovirus can also cause severe illness in people with weakened immune systems or pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions [3].

When to see a doctor?

It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen over time, especially in young children and older adults [2]. Signs that warrant a doctor's visit include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath [2].
• Worsening cough or the appearance of wheezing [2].
• In very young infants, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and difficulty breathing [2].

In some cases, young children or older adults with severe viral infections may require hospitalization [2]. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections, but antiviral medications may be available to treat some types of viral infections [1].

Preventing viral infections

To reduce the risk of viral infections and their complications, several preventive steps can be followed:

• Wash hands with soap and water regularly for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol [2].
• Avoid touching the face (mouth, nose, and eyes) with your hands [1].
• Avoid close contact with sick people [1].
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with germs [1].
• Get recommended vaccinations, such as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine available for older adults and certain other groups [2]. You can learn more about preventing common viral infections, their symptoms, and when to see a doctor by visiting Common Viral Infections: Prevention, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor (Arabic).

Medical references

• Viral Infections
• A new vaccine is here to protect you and your loved ones from RSV this winter
• About Adenovirus