About the RSV vaccine
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones with the RSV Vaccine
The RSV vaccine is an important tool to protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that can lead to severe illness, especially in babies and older adults. Here’s everything you need to know about the RSV vaccine.
What is RSV and Why is the Vaccine Important?
RSV is a frequent cause of coughs and colds, affecting most people several times throughout their lives. While it usually clears up on its own, RSV can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Pneumonia: A lung infection that can be life-threatening.
- Bronchiolitis: A chest infection that primarily affects babies.
For those with underlying health conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), RSV can worsen symptoms and lead to hospitalisation.
The RSV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchiolitis, providing essential protection for vulnerable groups.
Who Should Get the RSV Vaccine?
The RSV vaccine is recommended for:
- Pregnant Women: To help protect babies after birth, the vaccine is recommended from 28 weeks of pregnancy.
- Adults Aged 75 to 79: Older adults in this age range are also at higher risk of severe RSV complications and should receive the vaccine.
Eligibility for Adults 80+
If you turned 80 on or after September 1, 2024, you are eligible for the RSV vaccine until August 31, 2025. However, if you turned 80 before this date, you are no longer eligible for the vaccine.
How to Get the RSV Vaccine
- Pregnant Women: You are eligible from 28 weeks and will be sent a text invite. You can also speak to our reception team to schedule your vaccine as soon as possible.
- Adults Aged 75 to 79: We will contact you to invite you for your vaccine. Please wait for your invite, or ring reception on 01200 401680, if you haven't heard from us.
What to Expect When Getting the RSV Vaccine
The RSV vaccine is administered via injection into the upper arm. Unlike flu or COVID-19 vaccines, it is offered year-round. If you’re pregnant, you should receive the vaccine during each pregnancy to protect your baby for their first six months of life. Adults aged 75 to 79 only need one dose, which provides protection for several years.
Can I Get the RSV Vaccine with Other Vaccines?
Yes, the RSV vaccine can be given alongside other vaccines. Pregnant women can have it with the whooping cough or flu vaccines, while older adults can receive it with vaccines like the shingles or pneumococcal vaccine. However, flu or COVID-19 vaccines are usually administered separately unless a doctor deems it necessary.
Who Should Avoid the RSV Vaccine?
The RSV vaccine is safe for most people, but you should not receive it if:
- You’ve had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or any ingredient in the vaccine.
If you are feeling unwell with a high temperature, it’s recommended to wait until you’re better before getting vaccinated.
Is the RSV Vaccine Safe?
Yes, the RSV vaccine has been rigorously tested and approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Studies show that it is much safer to receive the vaccine during pregnancy than risk your baby getting RSV.
The most common side effects are mild, including pain at the injection site, headache, or body aches. Serious side effects are rare.
Learn More About the RSV Vaccine
For more detailed information on the RSV vaccine, visit the following resources:
Protect yourself and your loved ones - ring our reception team on 01200 401680, to schedule your vaccine.