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HomeYour HealthManaging Your HealthDr KrishanThe Dixie and Dr Krishan Podcast: Episode - RSV in Older AdultsThe Dixie and Dr Krishan Podcast

Episode - RSV in Older Adults

Published: Jul 8, 2025
Authored by Dr. Krishan

In an era where information is readily available at our fingertips, staying informed about healthcare choices has become increasingly important. Dixie Crawford and Dr. Krishan have joined forces to host an engaging new podcast series to talk all things healthcare, wellbeing and wellness. 

Check out the episode to hear their insightful discussion on RSV infections in older adults. Information provided in this episode is intended as a guide only and does not replace advice provided by your healthcare professional. 

Get to know your hosts:

Dixie Crawford

Dixie is a proud Barkindji woman from Brewarrina (in north-west NSW, Australia) who lives on Ngunnawal country. She is the Founder and Managing Director of First Nations community engagement consultancy, Nganya. 

Dr. Krishan Thiru

Dr. Krishan is a proud dad, husband, and soccer coach at his children’s local primary school. He has a background in hospital medicine and community health, with experience in general practice and working with Aboriginal communities. Dr. Krishan is passionate about people-centered care and empowering individuals to take control of their health. He is also the Medical Director for Pfizer Australia and New Zealand.

References
  1. National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Frequently    
    asked questions (FAQs).
    https://ncirs.org.au/ncirs-fact-sheets-faqs-and-other-resources/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-frequently-asked
    Accessed May 2025.
  2. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV in Older Adults.
    https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/older-adults/index.html
    Accessed May 2025.
  3. Better Health Channel. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv  
    Accessed May 2025.
     

These podcasts are frank and open conversations to help inform and empower First Nations people and the community with facts and information about everyday health concerns, like how to talk to your doctor about your health questions, and the health checks we need at every stage of life. 

 

In this episode Dr. Krishan and Dixie Crawford discuss the impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a highly contagious respiratory virus, on older adults. Dr. Krishan highlights older adults who are most at risk, including First Nations elders,1 people with other medical conditions,1 those with a weakened immune system,1 and people who live in a care facility.2 Our hosts delve into how RSV is diagnosed, the symptoms to look out for, and when to seek medical care to protect vulnerable adults.

Key Takeaways:

  1. The risk of severe RSV disease is higher among First Nations elders over 60 years and adults over 60 years with other medical conditions (including lung disease and heart disease) or a weakened immune system1
     
  2. For non-First Nations adults, the risk of severe RSV disease is higher from 75 years (with the risk increasing with age)1
     
  3. RSV symptoms are similar to those of the common cold and most people get a mild to moderate illness that resolves on its own3
     
  4. Seek medical attention if RSV symptoms do not improve, or symptoms worsen, or if there are signs of serious illness, including:3
    • difficulty breathing or wheezing 
    • high or persistent fevers
    • worsening cough or cough that produces mucus
       
  5. Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with sick individuals, is crucial to prevent the spread of RSV3


"Older adults often have other medical conditions as well that put them at risk of getting a severe infection. They may be immunocompromised, they may be frail, and this places them at risk of not being able to fight off the infection as well as a healthier younger adult may be able to."

Dr. Krishan Thiru

External Resources

Visit Nganya and learn more about initiatives and work from Dixie and her team https://nganya.com.au/

 

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