Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine

RESPIRATORY SYNCTIAL VIRUS (RSV) VACCINATIONS

From September 6th, we will be vaccinating patients against Respiratory Synctial Virus (RSV). RSV is a common cause of respiratory tract infections and can be severe in younger children and older adults. The virus can occur all year round but is most common in the winter months between October and March. It is spread by respiratory droplets and symptoms are similar to those of a cold, although children may develop ear infections.

We will shortly be sending out invitations via text message to eligible patients.

WHO SHOULD RECEIVE THE VACCINE?

Older adults aged 75 to 79 years old. All adults turning 75 years old on or after 1st September 2024 will be eligible for the routine programme and should be offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine. A one-off catch-up campaign for those already aged 75 to 79 years old on 1st September 2024 will be undertaken at the earliest opportunity.

Pregnant women to protect infants. All women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant (the eligible cohort) on 1st September 2024, will be offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine. After that, pregnant women will become eligible as they reach 28 weeks gestation and remain eligible up to birth.