Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine
From 1st September 2024 an older adults and maternal RSV vaccination programme has been announced.
Why is it recommended?
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common cause of acute respiratory tract infections which are usually mild and self-limiting. The virus is transmitted via respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing), through close contact with an infected person or contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms usually include runny nose, cough and fever. For infants, and older adults, the virus can lead to more severe illness and hospitalisation.
Who is eligible?
All people who are at least 28 weeks pregnant (the eligible cohort) on 1 September 2024, can receive a single dose of the RSV vaccine. After that, pregnant people will become eligible as they reach 28 weeks gestation and remain eligible up to birth. The ideal opportunity to offer vaccination would be at the 28-week antenatal contact (ANC), following prior discussion at the 20-week ANC.
All adults turning 75 years old on or after 1 September 2024 will also be eligible for the vaccination programme and can receive a single dose of the RSV vaccine on or after their 75th birthday. Adults will remain eligible until the day before their 80th birthday.
| Date of Birth | Eligible | Notes |
| Between 2 September 1944 and 31 August 1945 | Yes | Remain eligible up to and including 31 August 2025 |
| Between 1 September 1945 and 31 August 1949 | Yes | Remain eligible up to and including the day before their 80th birthday |
| On or after 1 September 1949 | Individuals become eligible on their 75th birthday- but not before | |
Further information regarding RSV and the vaccination programme please contact the surgery to speak to a member of our team or alternative further information can be found on the following links;