Millions urged to get vaccine for virus that can make people ‘seriously ill’

NHS England has urged elderly people to get jabbed against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – an infection that causes the common cold but can be more dangerous for older patients.

1.3 million people in the UK aged between 75 and 80 have been invited to vaccinate themselves against the virus, which can lead to “serious complications” in those who are vulnerable or immunocompromised.

People aged between 75 and 80 were urged to get the jabs, with the NHS warning that it can pose a health threat all 12 months of the year.

For most people, RSV only causes the common cold and predominantly affects the airways and lungs. For older adults, however, it can lead to more severe conditions including pneumonia and other lung infections.

The NHS only began vaccinating people for RSV in September 2024 – and 1.5 million people have already received it, reducing the risk of severe symptoms in just one dose.

Alongside those in their late seventies, the jab is available to pregnant women from 28 weeks onwards, as the virus is a leading cause of infant mortality. 150,000 women have been vaccinated since September, according to NHS data.

“RSV is not just a winter illness. We see cases increase in winter but it can occur all year round and can make older people seriously ill, so it is vital everyone eligible gets vaccinated,” Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccinations and Screening said.

“Vaccines for RSV, COVID-19 and flu protect you against different respiratory infections so it’s important you have each vaccine when you are offered them,” he added.

“I would encourage everyone we contact in the coming days, or anyone who has previously been invited but hasn’t yet taken up the offer, to get the RSV vaccine as soon as possible by contacting your GP. It could prevent you [from] developing a severe illness like pneumonia and even save your life”.

For most of the rest of the population, however, RSV infections are common and nothing to worry about – almost all children will catch them before reaching two-years-old.

The virus is spread, like colds, through coughing and sneezing, and its symptoms are also largely the same, including a runny or blocked nose, a cough, sneezing, tiredness and a high temperature.

Signs that RSV has turned into a more serious infection include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, faster breathing, difficulty feeding in babies and confusion in older adults.

“RSV can be severe in older people, causing serious lung infections like pneumonia and flare-ups of existing conditions,” Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Heath Security Agency, said.

“If you’re eligible, there is good evidence it will help give you protection – speak with your GP practice about getting the jab.”