RSV Vaccine

From the beginning of September, the NHS will be rolling out a new vaccination for respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV. This marks a big step forward in protecting older people aged 75 to 79 and newborn babies, not only in the run up to winter but all year round.

RSV is an incredibly common but potentially very serious infection – as many as 9 in 10 children will have had it by the time they’re two, and most of us will have it several times in our life. Symptoms include a cough, sore throat, sneezing and a runny or blocked nose.

Although RSV usually gets better by itself, it can be dangerous for young babies and can lead to bronchiolitis which makes it hard for babies to breathe. It can also be serious for older people, particularly those with heart or lung conditions or a weakened immune system, as it can lead to serious illnesses such as pneumonia. Thousands of babies and older people will end up in hospital due to RSV every year, typically in winter when cases are at their highest.

NHS staff and our partners have been working tirelessly to make sure the RSV vaccine can be rolled out at speed from September. This will help us to protect people and has the potential to save thousands of lives.

From 1 September, all adults turning 75 will be invited to get their RSV vaccine by their GP practice, and they will remain eligible until the day before their 80th birthday. They may be invited by their practice via letter, text or email.