The first RSV Vaccination programme run by the NHS has started. It offers babies and older people protection from the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for the first time.
RSV, a leading cause of infant mortality around the world. It is a common cause of coughs and colds however can lead to dangerous lung infections like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
As part of winter preparations, the NHS will vaccinate pregnant women and everyone aged 75 to 79 on 1 September.
Women should speak to their maternity service about receiving their vaccine from 28 weeks up to birth. Older adults will be invited by their local GP practice.
Research from women vaccinated against RSV shows that it reduces the risk of severe lung infection for baby by around 70% in their first six months of life.
Having the vaccine during pregnancy is the best way to protect a baby from getting seriously ill with RSV. It reduces the risk of severe lung infection for baby by around 70% in their first six months of life. The vaccine boosts the mother’s immune system to produce more antibodies against the virus to help protect baby from the day they’re born.
The RSV virus is a main cause of winter pressures in hospitals. A recent study in the Lancet showed the RSV vaccination programme could prevent 5,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 A&E attendances for infants. The same modelling suggests the older adults programme could prevent 2,500 hospital admissions, 15,000 GP visits and 60,000 RSV illnesses.
For more information, visit the NHS website.