Date: 17th Sep 2024

Category: Health

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programme

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period, typically November to February.

RSV can be especially dangerous for infants and the elderly, so from 1 September 2024, we will be offering two new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations to the following groups:

1. Pregnant women from 28 weeks

​​​​​​The best way to protect babies against RSV infection is for the mother to have the vaccine during pregnancy. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe RSV lung infection by around 70% in the first six months of life.

The vaccine boosts the pregnant woman’s immune system to make antibodies that can fight RSV infection. These antibodies then pass through the placenta to help protect the baby from birth.

1. Adults aged 75 to 79 years old  

RSV can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions.

How do you get the vaccine? 

If you are from 28 weeks pregnant or aged 75 – 79 you can get the free RSV vaccine at your GP practice or via your maternity service.

Find out more at: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)