Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine (RSV)

What the RSV vaccine is for

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:

These illnesses can cause serious breathing problems. They may need to be treated in hospital and can be life-threatening.

Getting RSV can also make your symptoms worse if you have a lung condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

The RSV vaccine helps reduce the risk of serious breathing problems like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Who should have the RSV vaccine

The RSV vaccine is recommended 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 aged 75 to 79

How to get the RSV Vaccination

The Stevenage South PCN are currently providing the RSV vaccination on behalf of our practices and have been providing the vaccine since September 2024.

If you fit the above eligibility, you should be contacted by our operations team, if you have not been contacted please approach your surgery who will be able to book the vaccine for you.

For more information regarding our vaccination hub please click here.

For more information regarding the RSV vaccine, please click here.