19/09/2024
What the RSV vaccine is for?
RSV is a common respiratory (lungs and airways) illness. RSV infection is more common from late autumn to early spring, but can happen at any time of year.
Sometimes, RSV infection can cause severe lower respiratory infections like pneumonia. It can also cause other life-threatening conditions.
Last year in Scotland, there were over 1,000 RSV cases in adults aged 75 and over.
The vaccine helps protect you by reducing your chances of getting an RSV infection.
Who can get the RSV vaccine?
If you’re turning 75 years old between 1 August 2024 and 31 July 2025, you’ll be offered the RSV vaccine. This includes if your 75th birthday is on 1 August 2024 or 31 July 2025.
The vaccine will also be offered to anyone who is aged 75 to 79 years on 1 August 2024. This means you can get the vaccine if your date of birth is between 2 August 1944 and 31 July 1950. This is because the RSV vaccine is new to Scotland, and this group could not be given the vaccine before now.
In future years, the vaccine will be routinely offered to those turning 75 years old between 1 August and 31 July.
Getting the RSV vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against infections caused by RSV.
The RSV is also offered during pregnancy, regardless of age.
The RSV vaccination programme is run by Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board, rather than the practice. If you have any questions, please contact the NHS Inform Vaccination Helpline on 0800 917 6115 or visit www.nhsinform.scot/rsv-adult
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