Margaret McMahon: How a common yet unpredictable virus led me to ICU

In April 2023, 68-year-old Margaret McMahon started to feel a little unwell but brushed it off to simply being rundown. 

The next day, Margaret developed a cough and was struggling to breath. She started to feel increasingly unwell. 

By day three, a 40-degree temperature prompted Margaret to go to hospital.   

As soon as Margaret arrived at the emergency department, she was admitted to intensive care. There, Margaret was put into isolation, with only her husband allowed to visit, with strict infectious disease protocols in place.   

After a range of tests, it was discovered that Margaret had RSV which had triggered double pneumonia, sepsis, and some liver damage.  

“While I had heard of RSV, I thought it was something that impacts babies more than anyone else,” Margaret said. “I didn’t realise how sick adults could also get from RSV.” 

In addition to antibiotics, Margaret was supported with high-flow oxygen to support her breathing. 

Magaret spent two-and-a-half days in ICU, with a full week in hospital.    

“It was a horrible experience and not one I have fully recovered from. Nearly a year later and I am still coughing – it often wakes me and my husband up at night,” Margaret said. “I will definitely be getting the RSV vaccine when it’s available.”