RSV vaccine

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major respiratory virus that is most common over the winter period, typically October to February. While the symptoms are mild for many, RSV accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations of children under 5 in the UK annually, and for 20 to 30 infant deaths.

RSV can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions. It causes around 9,000 hospitalisations in those aged over 75 in the UK each year.

You can find out more about the symptoms of RSV on the NHS website.

The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that can make babies and older adults seriously ill. It’s recommended during pregnancy and for adults aged 75 to 79.

How to get the RSV vaccine

There are different ways 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.

Getting vaccinated as soon as possible from 28 weeks will provide the best protection for your baby. But the vaccine can be given later if needed, including up until you go into labour.

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

Your GP surgery will usually contact you about getting the RSV vaccine. This may be by letter, text, phone call or email.

Please wait to be contacted before booking your vaccination.

Find out more on the NHS website – RSV vaccine – NHS (www.nhs.uk).