The RSV vaccine helps protect against infection with RSV, a common virus that can make babies and older adults seriously ill. It's offered on the NHS if you're pregnant, aged 75 to 79, or turned 80 after 1 September 2024.What the RSV vaccine is forThe RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. Most people get it several times during their life.It usually gets better by itself, but in some people (especially babies and older adults) it can cause illnesses, such as:pneumonia (a lung infection)bronchiolitis (a chest infection that affects babies)These illnesses can cause serious breathing problems. They may need to be treated in hospital and can be life-threatening.Getting an RSV infection can also make your symptoms worse if you have a lung condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).The RSV vaccine helps reduce the risk of serious breathing problems like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.Who should have the RSV vaccineYou can get a free RSV vaccination on the NHS if:you're 28 weeks pregnant or more � the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy to help protect your baby after they're bornyou're aged 75 to 79you turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024How to get the RSV vaccineThere are different ways to get the RSV vaccine.If you're pregnantYou should be offered the RSV vaccine around the time of your 28-week antenatal appointment.Getting vaccinated as soon as possible from 28 weeks will provide the best protection for your baby. But the vaccine can be given later if needed, including up until you go into labour.Speak to your maternity service or GP surgery if you're 28 weeks pregnant or more and have not been offered the vaccine.If you're aged 75 to 79 (or turned 80 after 1 September 2024)If you're aged 75 to 79 (or turned 80 after 1 September 2024) contact your GP surgery to book your RSV vaccination.Your GP surgery may contact you about getting the RSV vaccine. This may be by letter, text, phone call or email.You do not need to wait to be contacted before booking your vaccination.
