Staying well during winter: RSV vaccine

As we head towards winter, respiratory illnesses begin to rise. One of the most serious among them is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). While RSV often causes mild cold-like symptoms, it can be dangerous for babies, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions. RSV is one of the main causes of hospital admissions in infants during the winter months and can significantly impact older adults as well. For those most at risk, the RSV vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalisation and complications and helps reduce the risk of serious breathing problems like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

You can get a free RSV vaccination on the NHS if:

• you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more – the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy to help protect your baby after they’re born
• you’re aged 75 to 79
• you turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024

How to get the RSV vaccine

• If you’re pregnant you should be offered the RSV vaccine around the time of your 28-week antenatal appointment. Speak to your maternity service or GP surgery if you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more and have not been offered the vaccine.
• If you’re aged 75 to 79 (or turned 80 after 1 September 2024) contact your GP surgery to book your RSV vaccination. Your GP surgery may contact you about getting the RSV vaccine. This may be by letter, text, phone call or email. You do not need to wait to be contacted before booking your vaccination.

For more information about the RSV vaccine, including how the vaccine is given, ingredients, and possible side effects visit the NHS website here.