RSV Vaccination

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an infectious disease of the airways and lungs. It causes similar symptoms to a cold, including a cough, sneezing, a sore throat or blocked nose. Every year thousands of older adults need hospital care for RSV. RSV is more serious in people with other medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, or a weakened immune system.

Who is eligible for a vaccination?

· Those who turn 75 years of age on or after 1st September 2024

· Those who are already 75 to 79 years old on 1st September 2024

· Pregnant women, at around week 28 of their pregnancy

I am under 75, can I have the vaccination?

Younger people will be offered the vaccine when they turn 75.

When can I have my vaccination?

The programme will begin in September 2024.

Should I have the vaccination?

The best way to protect yourself is by having the vaccine. Almost everybody can have the vaccine but tell the doctor or nurse if you have ever had a serious allergy to a vaccine, or any of the ingredients. If you have a minor illness such as a cold you can receive the vaccine, but if you are very unwell or have a fever, the doctor or nurse may advise you to wait until you are better.

How long does the RSV vaccination protect you for?

In clinical studies the RSV vaccine provided good protection for at least 2 years and is expected to last longer. The vaccine reduces the chance of you suffering from RSV. No vaccine is completely effective, so some people may still get RSV, if you do the symptoms should be less severe.

How do I book my vaccination?

You do not need to contact us as you will receive an appointment booking link via text message if you are eligible. Patients without mobiles will be contacted by telephone.

Will I have side effects from the vaccination?

You may get some soreness, redness or swelling at the site of the injection for a few days after the vaccination. You can report suspected side effects to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA):

On the yellow card website https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/

By calling the free phone line: 0800 731 6789 (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday)

By downloading the Yellow Card App:

iOS Yellow Card – MHRA on the App Store (apple.com) or

Android Yellow Card Scheme – Apps on Google Play

Where can I find further information about the vaccination?

RSV vaccine for adults (harthealth.nhs.uk)

Your guide to the RSV vaccine for older adults – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

A guide to RSV vaccination for pregnant women – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)