Respiratory syncytial virus Posted or Updated on 5 Aug 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds. It usually gets better by itself, but it can be serious for some babies and older adults. 

Who's at risk from RSV 

RSV is very common. Almost all children get it at least once before they're 2 years old. 

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

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

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 from September 2024 

A vaccine to help protect against RSV will be available on the NHS from 1 September 2024. 

You'll be able to get the vaccine if: 

• you're aged 75 to 79
• you're 28 weeks pregnant or more – this will help protect your baby for the first few months after they're born

If you're aged 75 to 79, or you will be 28 weeks pregnant or more by September, we will send you an invite via text with a booking link for you to book your RSV vaccination.  You can ring up to book if you need an alternate date or time to the online appointment slots. 

More information here (PDF, 147KB)