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
- 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 from September 2024
A vaccine to help protect against RSV became available on the NHS from 1 September 2024. There is more information about this on NHS website.
You’ll be able to get the vaccine if:
- You’re pregnant- the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) to help protect your baby after they’re born
- You’re age 75-79
If you turned 80 on or after 1 September 2024, you’re eligible for the RSV vaccine until 31 August 2025. You’re not eligible for the RSV vaccine if you turned 80 before 1 September 2024.
How will I get my vaccine
If you’re aged 75 to 79, your GP surgery will contact you about getting vaccinated. Please wait to be contacted.
In Norfolk and Waveney RSV vaccinations for pregnant women are mainly being given at community clinics. Pregnant women will be contacted via a text to the number on their health records with a link to book an appointment at a clinic venue of their choice. The clinics are being held at:
- Wellbeing Hub Castle Quarter, Norwich
- CSAIS, Cringleford Business Centre, Intwood Road, Norwich
- Riverside Family Hub, Lowestoft NR35 0TQ,
- Dial, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2NZ
- Seagulls Children Centre, Gorleston NR31 7BP
- Great Yarmouth Library, NR3 2SH
- Butterflies Family Hub, Beccles, NR34 7BQ
- Thetford ECFS, IP24 3DY
- Maple Hub, Kings Lynn, PE30 2LB
- Downham Market Juniper Hub, PE38 9JS
If you have not been contacted – and you are more than 27 weeks pregnant please email hct.immunisationappointments1@nhs.net and a member of the RSV team will contact you.
