Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds. RSV infections usually get better by themselves, but can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.

Who's at risk from RSV

RSV infections are very common. Almost all children get them at least once before they're 2 years old.

They're not usually serious, but some babies and adults have a higher risk of getting seriously ill, particularly:

• babies under 6 months old
• young children who were born prematurely
• adults over 75 years
• babies, children and adults with a weakened immune system, or long-term lung or heart conditions
• people who smoke tobacco and babies exposed to tobacco smoke

In babies, RSV is a common cause of a type of chest infection called bronchiolitis. This can cause breathing problems and may need to be treated in hospital.

RSV can also cause a serious lung infection (pneumonia) in babies and older adults.

RSV vaccination

The RSV vaccine is recommended if:

• you're pregnant (from 28 weeks of pregnancy) – this will help protect your baby for the first few months after they're born
• you're aged 75 to 79

The vaccine helps reduce the risk of RSV causing serious problems such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

If you're aged 75 to 79, we will contact you about getting vaccinated.

If you're 28 weeks pregnant or more, you can speak to your mid-wife or we will contact you about getting vaccinated.

Due to limited quantity of vaccines supplied each week to surgery, we will conatct you about being vaccinated. Please do not call the surgery.

Published: Sep 24, 2024