RSV vaccine could prevent 900 babies being admitted to hospitals in London every year says NHS

RSV is a common virus that causes colds and coughs during winter, while many cases are mild, in some people it can cause serious and life-threatening breathing difficulties.

The RSV vaccine will be offered to pregnant women at 28 weeks, and older adults, including those turning 75 from September 1.

There will also be a one-off ‘catch-up’ offer for everyone aged 75 to 79 years old to ensure the older age group are protected as the winter months approach.

The new vaccination programme is expected to help protect infants from serious illness, with a recent analysis estimating that it could prevent around 3,600 GP consultations a year.

The study also estimated around 2,700 fewer emergency department attendances every year, and around 12,600 fewer cases of RSV in children under a year old in London.

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The NHS in London is encouraging as many pregnant women as possible to get the vaccine.  It is estimated that if around 60% get the RSV jab it could prevent nearly 40 children being admitted to intensive care units at London hospitals this winter.

Chief Nurse for the NHS in London, Jane Clegg, said: “We’re encouraging everyone who is eligible, to get the RSV vaccine this autumn. RSV is very common, with around nine out of every ten children getting the infection before they are two years old.

“Many people are still not aware of this virus, which in some cases can lead to severe lung infections, like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, and is a leading cause of infant mortality globally. The vaccine reduces the risk of severe bronchiolitis by 70% in the first six months of life.

“Having the vaccine during every pregnancy is the best way to protect your baby against RSV, as the vaccine boosts your immune system to produce more antibodies against the virus, and these then pass through the placenta to help protect your baby from the day they are born.

“I urge you to have the RSV vaccine at your 28 weeks antenatal appointment or speak to your maternity team.”

The vaccine will be launched in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with Scotland already beginning its RSV vaccination programme in August.

What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of colds and coughs, with most of us having it many times in our lives and as many as nine in 10 children having it by the age of two.

Symptoms include a cough, sore throat, sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. RSV infections often get better by themselves but can cause serious and life-threatening breathing difficulties for babies and older adults.

Who is eligible for the RSV vaccine?

Women who are 28 weeks pregnant and older people aged 75 to 79-years-old will be eligible for RSV vaccine.

If you turned 80 on or after September 1, 2024, you're eligible for the RSV vaccine until 31 August 2025. You're not eligible for the RSV vaccine if you turned 80 before September 1, 2024.

How do I get the RSV vaccine?

If you’re pregnant you should be offered the RSV vaccine around the time of your 28-week antenatal appointment, which will provide the best protection for your baby. The vaccine can also be given later, including up until you go into labour. If you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more and haven’t been offered a vaccine speak to your maternity service or GP Surgery.

If you’re aged 75 to 79-years-old your GP surgery will contact you about getting the RSV vaccine, either by letter, text, phone call or email.

When is it available?

The RSV vaccine will be available to access all year round. Older people will only need one dose of the vaccine, which will offer protection for multiple years, whilst women should get a vaccination with every pregnancy to protect the baby.

You can find out more about who is eligible and how to access the RSV vaccine on NHS.UK.