Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
This is a common cause of coughs and colds. RSV infections usually get better by themselves, but can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.
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.
The symptoms of RSV
RSV may cause a cough or a cold, wheezing, shortness of breath, tiredness and fever. Most cases are not serious and clear up within 2 to 3 weeks.
You can find out more about the symptoms of RSV on the NHS website.
RSV Vaccinations
The RSV vaccine is recommended if:
- you're at least 28 weeks pregnant – this will help protect your baby for the first few months after they're born
- you're aged 75 to 79
The vaccine helps reduce the risk of RSV causing serious problems such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
If you're aged 75 to 79, your GP surgery will contact you about getting vaccinated.
If you're 28 weeks pregnant or more, you can speak to your maternity service or GP surgery about getting vaccinated.
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