NHS rolls out first ever RSV vaccine to protect those at risk from severe respiratory illness

The NHS has started vaccinating people against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a leading cause of infant mortality around the world, is a common cause of coughs and colds but can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, which are highly dangerous to older people and young children.

In preparation for winter, locally the NHS has begun vaccinating pregnant women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant on 1st September and older adults, including those who turn 75 on or after 1 September.

Those who are eligible will be contacted.

There will also be a one-off ‘catch-up’ program for individuals aged 75 to 79 to ensure the older age group are protected as the colder months approach.

The RSV vaccination is available all year-round but as cases peak every winter around December, it’s important that those eligible take up the offer as soon as possible when invited.

More information on RSV can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/

In addition to RSV, the NHS is also rolling out vaccination programs for flu and COVID-19, focusing on those at greatest risk ahead of winter. Flu vaccinations will be offered to pregnant women and most children from this month, with flu and COVID-19 vaccines available to other eligible groups starting October 3.