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.
This new vaccine offers huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most
vulnerable to RSV, helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS.
We strongly encourage women who are 28 or more weeks pregnant to speak to their
maternity service or GP surgery to ensure their baby is protected, and those aged 75 to 79 to
come forward for their vaccine when they are invited from September.
Maternal:
• From September 2024, pregnant women can have a vaccine to help protect their
babies against RSV
• You should get your free RSV vaccine when you reach 28 weeks of pregnancy. You should speak to your maternity service or GP surgery to get your vaccine
• Studies have shown the RSV vaccine is very safe for you and your baby
• A vaccine is needed in every pregnancy to give your new baby the best protection
Older Adults:
• A single dose of vaccine will help to boost protection as you reach an age group at
highest risk of serious RSV infection.
• Everyone turning 75 years old on or after the 1 September 2024 will be offered a
single dose of RSV vaccine.
• The vaccine will also be offered to those who are already aged 75 to 79 years on 1
September 2024.
