NHS Launches First Ever RSV Vaccination Programme
Protecting Those Most at Risk from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
The NHS has launched its first-ever vaccination programme against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a leading cause of severe respiratory illness in infants and older adults worldwide. This new initiative marks a significant step forward in protecting the most vulnerable and will save lives.
What is RSV?
RSV is a common virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms. However, in young children and older adults, it can lead to severe lung infections such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. It is a significant cause of infant mortality globally and a primary reason for hospital admissions in children’s hospitals during the winter months.
Who Will Be Vaccinated?
As part of its winter preparedness plan, the NHS is offering the RSV vaccine to:
Pregnant Women: To protect newborns from severe RSV-related illnesses, the vaccine is available from 28 weeks of pregnancy up to birth.
Older Adults: Individuals turning 75 on or after 1 September, and a one-off ‘catch-up’ offer for those aged 75 to 79 years.
How to Get Vaccinated
Pregnant Women: Vaccination is available through maternity services at any time from 28 weeks of pregnancy until birth. You can also request the vaccine from your local GP practice.
Older Adults: Eligible older adults will receive an invitation from their GP practice to get vaccinated.
Why Get Vaccinated Against RSV?
Research shows that the RSV vaccine is highly effective in reducing severe lung infections. Studies involving thousands of women worldwide have demonstrated that vaccinating pregnant women can lower the risk of severe RSV infections in newborns by around 70% during the first six months of life.
For older adults, the vaccine is expected to prevent about 2,500 hospital admissions, 15,000 GP visits, and 60,000 cases of RSV illnesses in the first year of the catch-up programme.
A Crucial Step for the NHS This Winter
The rollout of the RSV vaccine is part of the NHS's broader plan to protect those at greatest risk ahead of winter. Alongside RSV, the NHS will also provide flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to eligible groups to help manage winter pressures.
The Impact of RSV in the UK
RSV places significant pressure on children’s hospitals every winter. Last year, at the peak in December, there was an average of 146 young children hospitalised daily due to RSV, an increase of 11% compared to the previous winter. The new vaccine programme could prevent up to 5,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 A&E visits for infants this winter.
A Proven, Safe, and Effective Vaccine
The RSV vaccine has been approved by the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and has been safely administered to thousands of women in countries like the USA. It is a vital tool in preventing severe illness and saving lives, especially as we head into the challenging winter months.
Get Vaccinated – Protect Yourself and Those Around You
If you are eligible for the RSV, flu, or COVID-19 vaccines, make sure to get vaccinated as soon as possible this autumn to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
This information and more can be found on the NHS website