MILLIONS of people will be offered a vaccine on the NHS to protect against a respiratory virus that can cause serious complications. From next month, anyone aged 75 and over will be eligible for one dose of Pfizer's jab Abrysvo to tackle respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 1 A new RSV vaccine will be offered to older people and pregnant women from September Credit: PA All women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant by the date will also be invited for a shot to help keep themselves and their babies safe.
The NHS in England is being urged to vaccinate as many people as possible in September and October before winter starts and RSV circulates more widely. Going forward, all women will become eligible for a jab once they reach 28 weeks of pregnancy. The programme is already underway in Scotland, and Northern Ireland and Wales are expected to follow.
READ MORE ON RSV WINTER WOES From a 100-day cough to a vomiting bug - 7 illnesses that could ruin your Xmas VIRAL CLUES Can you spot the difference between RSV, Strep A and measles in your child? RSV causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. In healthy adults and older children, it typically causes cold-like symptoms . However, babies are at risk of severe infection with RSV and can need admission to hospital, particularly in the winter months.
Similarly, premature babies, older adults, people with heart and lung disease or anyone with a weak immune system is at greater risk. Most read in Health NEW ANSWERS Diet is ‘main dr.
