RSV Vaccinations in Somerset

What is RSV and who is eligible for vaccination?

The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

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.

You can get a free RSV vaccination on the NHS if:

you're 28 weeks pregnant or more
you're aged 75 to 79 years old
you turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024

ELIGIBILITY UPDATE FOR OLDER ADULTS FROM APRIL 2026:

From the 1 April 2026 the eligibility criteria for the older adult RSV programme will also include those aged 80 years and over (with no upper age limit).

In addition, all residents in care homes for older adults will also become eligible, regardless of their age, due to their increased risk from RSV.

RSV and pregnancy

RSV and over-75s

Reduce your risk of catching RSV

UKHSA

Where can I get my RSV vaccination in Somerset?

You can access the RSV vaccine through the NHS in several ways:

Your GP Practice – Most people in the eligible groups can get the vaccine at their local GP surgery. Contact your GP to book an appointment.
Local Pharmacies – Some pharmacies offer the vaccine for eligible adults. Check the NHS Find a Pharmacy service.
Hospital or Antenatal Clinics – Pregnant women may be offered the vaccine during routine antenatal appointments. Speak to your midwife for more information.

UKHSA: What is RSV and is there a vaccine?

RSV and pregnancy

During pregnancy, you are eligible for free, routine vaccinations to protect you, your pregnancy and your newborn baby from the complications of infection.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is given all year round ideally around 28 weeks but can be given until 36 weeks. If for any reason you miss having it by 36 weeks you can still have it up until birth.

Watch this short video: Expectant Somerset mum Nastasha tells us why she decided to get vaccinated

Speak to your midwife for more information and find more infromation about walk-in clinics across Somerset here.

RSV and over-75s: Your vaccine questions answered

If someone says, “I’m healthy, I don’t need the RSV jab” – what would you say? In this video, Nurse Kathy from Wincanton Health Centre answers common questions about the RSV vaccine and explains why it’s recommended for people aged 75 and over.

Even if you feel fit and well, RSV can lead to serious illness in older adults. Find out: What RSV is and why it matters in later life, Why the vaccine is offered to over-75s and How the RSV jab helps protect you.

This advice is provided by NHS Somerset to help you make an informed decision about vaccination.