RSV vaccine

What the RSV vaccine is for

The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. Most people get it several times during their life.

It usually gets better by itself, but in some people (especially babies and older adults) it can cause illnesses such as:

• pneumonia (a lung infection)
• bronchiolitis (a chest infection that affects babies)

These illnesses can cause serious breathing problems. They may need to be treated in hospital and can be life-threatening.

Getting RSV can also make your symptoms worse if you have a lung condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

The RSV vaccine helps reduce the risk of serious breathing problems like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Who should have the RSV vaccine

The RSV vaccine is recommended if:

• you're pregnant – the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) to help protect your baby after they're born
• you're 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 if you're 28 weeks pregnant or more and have not been offered the vaccine.

If you're aged 75 to 79

We are in the process of setting up clinics to offer the RSV vaccine. 

Once the clinics have been set up we will contact everybody who is eligible (unless they already have an appointment booked) eith:

• by text - with a link so that you can book your own appointment
• by letter - so that you can contact us to arrange your appointment

Further information about RSV vaccines can be found here; https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/rsv-vaccine/

Published on 13 September 2024