Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. The virus is common over the winter period, typically November to February, and can lead to pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalisation and intensive care in severe cases.

A new RSV vaccine will be available from 1 September offering huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV and helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS.

The vaccine will be available to pregnant women at week 28 or later and everyone aged 75 to 79 or turning 75 years old on or after 1 September 2024.

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.

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.

The symptoms of RSV

RSV may cause a cough or a cold, wheezing, shortness of breath, tiredness and fever. Most cases are not serious and clear up within 2 to 3 weeks.

RSV can also cause bronchiolitis in infants, which can make it difficult to breathe and feed. RSV bronchiolitis symptoms may include difficult, fast or noisy breathing and being unsettled or difficult to comfort.

Find out more on the NHS website.