Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination

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What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds. It usually gets better by itself, but it can be serious for some babies and older adults.

The virus can lead to pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalisation and intensive care in severe cases

Vaccination against RSV

A vaccine to help protect against RSV will be available on the NHS from 1 September 2024.

This new vaccine offers huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV, helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS.

You’ll be able to get the vaccine if:

  • you’re aged 75 to 79
  • you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more – this will help protect your baby for the first few months after they’re born

If you’re aged 75 to 79, we will contact you about getting vaccinated. Please wait to be contacted before trying to book this vaccination.

From September, you can speak to your maternity service or GP surgery about getting your RSV vaccination if you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more.

Information for older adults (aged 75-79)

  • A single dose of vaccine will help to boost protection as you reach an age group at highest risk of serious RSV infection.
  • Everyone turning 75 years old on or after the 1 September 2024 will be offered a single dose of RSV vaccine.
  • The vaccine will also be offered to those who are already aged 75 to 79 years on 1 September 2024.
  • Your GP surgery will contact you to offer you an RSV vaccination appointment if you are eligible
  • RSV vaccine is given all year round, however, it is recommended to have it in September before the virus peaks in winter