A Somerset farmer, whose mum spent years supporting her church and volunteering locally before becoming critically ill with RSV, is urging older people to get vaccinated and make the most of new rules which mean everyone over 75 can get the jab from April.
Previously, the RSV vaccine was available to older adults who were aged 75 to 79 years old to those who turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024, but from 1 April, the upper age limit is being amended so everyone over 75 can get the potentially lifesaving vaccination. It is also available to pregnant women from 28 weeks.
Sandra Aplin, who farms near Chard, says her mother, Alice Hodges, 82, spent two weeks in hospital after what began as ‘just a cold’ got dramatically worse in December 2024.
Before her illness, Alice was in good health and was an active member of her community, until RSV left her suddenly struggling to breathe.
Sandra said: “At first, mum said she felt pretty awful and had a streaming nose but thought it would pass. But just a few days later she rang me at five in the morning to say she could hardly breathe. She was so bad we just couldn’t move her.”
Paramedics arrived quickly and took her straight to Musgrove Park Hospital, in Taunton, where she was diagnosed with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).
“We’d never even heard of RSV before,” Sandra said. “When the nurse told me, I had to Google it.”
At the hospital, Alice became extremely unwell and confused.
“We didn’t think she was going to make it,” Sandra said. “She was so distressed, trying to get the mask off that was helping her to breathe. To see mum like that was awful; she’s always been the one caring for everyone else.”
Alice remained in hospital for two weeks before she could return home, and, sadly, the illness has left lasting damage to her heart. She now tires easily, has much less stamina than before, and needs a pacemaker.
Dr Rob Weaver, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer at NHS Somerset, said
“Alice’s experience shows that RSV can become serious very quickly, even in older adults who feel healthy, active and well. It may start with mild cold‑like symptoms, but it can lead to complications. Expanding the vaccine programme to include everyone aged 80 and over will help protect those most at risk.
“I’d strongly encourage all eligible patients to take up the offer when they receive their invitation. A small jab now can help keep you, or your loved one, out of hospital later.”
Sandra welcomed the announcement, saying: “It’s fantastic news. I really wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what mum went through.”
