Respiratory Syncytial Virus, RSV, has been around for a long time but has come to public attention because of a new vaccine being offered this year to protect against it. It is incredibly common and can be a potentially serious infection. Most people will have it several times in their lifetime and symptoms include a cough, sore throat, sneezing and a runny or blocked nose.

Although RSV usually gets better by itself, it can be dangerous for young babies and can lead to bronchiolitis which makes it hard for babies to breathe. It can also be serious for older people, particularly those with heart or lung conditions or a weakened immune system, as it can lead to serious illnesses such as pneumonia. Thousands of babies and older people will end up in hospital due to RSV every year, typically in winter when cases are at their highest. So, the new vaccination is intended for the protection of these 2 groups.

Women who are 28 weeks pregnant or more will be able to get the vaccine, giving vital protection to their baby in the first few months of life. Those already aged 75-79 years old on 1 September 2024 will also be offered vaccination. Older people need just one dose for protection that will last multiple years, while women should get the vaccine during every pregnancy to protect each baby.

It is estimated that this will save thousands of admissions of babies to hospital along with thousands of older folks. It will also reduce antibiotic usage and help tackle the problem of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistant infections in 2023 surpassed pre-pandemic levels causing great concern for doctors.