Dr Oliver Large
August 24, 2024
For the first time in the UK, a vaccination for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is being offered, marking a significant milestone in public health. RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause severe illness, particularly in infants, young children, and older adults. It is one of the leading causes of respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, and can be especially dangerous for those with weakened immune systems.
What is RSV?
RSV is a virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. While most people recover from it within a week or two, it can lead to severe respiratory illness in vulnerable populations. Symptoms of RSV infection can include a runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. For older adults and those with chronic heart or lung disease, RSV can lead to more serious health complications.
The Development of the RSV Vaccine
The RSV vaccine has been developed by leading pharmaceutical companies after years of research and clinical trials. The vaccine is designed to protect against severe RSV disease in older adults and those at high risk. It works by stimulating the immune system to recognise and fight the virus before it can cause severe illness.
Why is RSV Vaccination Important?
RSV can be particularly dangerous for older adults, especially those aged 60 and over, as the immune system weakens with age. Vaccination is a crucial tool in preventing the severe complications that can arise from an RSV infection. By getting vaccinated, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of hospitalisation and severe illness, thereby protecting not only themselves but also those around them.
Who is Eligible for the RSV Vaccine?
The RSV vaccine is licensed to be given to individuals aged 60 and over, making it a key preventive measure for older adults who are at higher risk of severe illness from RSV. This winter, if you are between the ages of 75 and 79, you will be eligible for vaccination on the NHS, and you may be specifically approached by your GP surgery to receive the vaccination.
The vaccine may also be administered to younger age groups under specific circumstances. For instance, the NHS is currently discussing the potential benefits of vaccinating pregnant women.
Why are only 75-79 year olds being offered this on the NHS?
The NHS is prioritising the vaccination of those aged 75 to 79 against RSV this winter to protect those at the highest risk of severe illness. This targeted approach allows the NHS to allocate resources effectively, ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals receive protection first. By focusing on this specific age group, which is particularly susceptible to complications from RSV, the NHS can maximise the public health benefits during the critical winter months, while also gathering data to inform future vaccination strategies.
Why Vaccinate Pregnant Women?
Vaccinating pregnant women against RSV is considered for its potential to protect both the mother and her unborn child. When a pregnant woman receives the RSV vaccine, her body produces antibodies that can be passed on to the baby, offering the newborn early protection against the virus. This is particularly important because RSV can be especially dangerous for infants, leading to severe respiratory infections that may require hospitalisation. By vaccinating pregnant women, the NHS aims to reduce the incidence of severe RSV disease in newborns during their most vulnerable early months of life.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are aged 75-79, or are pregnant, we recommend contacting your NHS GP surgery to learn more about how the new scheme will work for you. Please bear in mind that this is new for your surgery, so they may take time rolling it out.
If you are 60 or over and would like to receive the vaccination privately, we offer it for £230. You can book an appointment here.