RSV Vaccination Programme

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. The virus can lead to pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalisation and intensive care in severe cases. On 1 September 2024, two new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programmes will be introduced.

1) A programme to protect infants by vaccinating pregnant women (from 28 weeks)

All women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant (the eligible cohort) on 1 September 2024, will be offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine to help protect their newborn babies. After that, pregnant women will become eligible as they reach 28 weeks gestation and remain eligible up to birth. Women that are at least 28 weeks pregnant should speak to their maternity service or GP surgery to get the vaccine to protect their baby. Women will be offered the vaccine in each pregnancy.

2) A programme for older adults aged 75 to 79 years old

Adults turning 75 years old on or after 1 September 2024 will be eligible for the routine programme and should be offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine. A one-off catch-up campaign for those already aged 75 to 79 years old on 1 September 2024 will be undertaken at the earliest opportunity.

Eligible people will be invited by their GP.