The little-known vaccination that could keep you out of hospital this winter
15,000 over 75s in Somerset who are eligible haven’t yet taken up the RSV vaccination
There’s a winter virus called RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), which can be much more serious for over 75’s, and for anyone with a weaker immune system or long-term health condition. It often starts like a simple cold, but can quickly lead to pneumonia and breathing problems, which can lead to hospital stays – especially in colder months.
On average every year in the UK around 9000 over 75’s become infected with RSV and have to be admitted to hospital.
“What many people don’t realise is that the NHS now offers a free RSV vaccine that protects against this virus. It’s a newer vaccination for older adults, which is why you may not have heard much about it yet. But it can make a real difference to staying well over the winter months”. Says Mike Kelly, NHS Somerset’s Programme Lead Neighbourhoods and Vaccinations.
If you or a family member is 75 or over, please make time to get protected. A small jab now can help keep you, or your loved one out of hospital later.
RSV
This virus spreads easily through coughs and sneezes and can hit older lungs much harder than expected. The RSV vaccine helps your body fight it off before it becomes serious.
Why having the RSV vaccine matters
- A single dose helps boost protection for at least 2 years
It helps:
- Prevent pneumonia
- Reduce the risk of hospital stays
- Support staying active and independent
Who’s eligible?
The NHS is offering the RSV vaccine to people aged 75-79, those who turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024 and pregnant women from 28 weeks, as it also protects newborn babies during their first months of life.
RSV vaccine take-up in Somerset
In Somerset, nearly 15,000 over 75s who are eligible to have the RSV vaccine have not yet taken it up that’s nearly 30% of over 80’s and nearly 50% of over 75s.
How to get the vaccine?
You will probably be invited by letter, text or a telephone call from your GP to have your RSV vaccination. Don’t worry if you haven’t heard from them, over 75’s can contact their GP to book a vaccination.
Dr Rob Weaver, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer, NHS Somerset says
“RSV can be more serious in older adults than many people realise. Vaccination offers important protection against severe illness, including complications such as pneumonia. By reducing your risk of infection, it may also help protect those around you, including babies and young children, who can be particularly vulnerable to RSV. If you are aged 75 or over, I would strongly encourage you to take up the offer of vaccination this winter.”
