You will be able to get a free RSV vaccination because you’re aged 75 to 79 years (or recently turned 80).

Why the NHS is offering you RSV vaccination

Every year, thousands of people in your age group need hospital care for RSV infection. RSV can make it difficult to breathe and can lead to severe problems like pneumonia. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.

Having your RSV vaccination will reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms. Read more at www.nhs.uk/rsv-vaccine. For a guide to RSV vaccination for older adults, visit www.gov.uk/rsv-vaccine.

What is RSV? 

RSV is a respiratory virus that affects the lungs. Symptoms include a cough, sore throat and cold. Most people get better on their own, but older people are at increased risk of serious illness.

How to get your RSV vaccination

You do not need to take any action until you are invited by your GP surgery. Please wait for your GP surgery to contact you.

When they offer you an appointment, it’s important you get vaccinated as soon as you can, ahead of the colder months. 

You only need 1 dose of the RSV vaccine for good, long-term protection.

It’s more effective to have your RSV vaccination on a different day to your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. If you have already booked or had your RSV vaccination, you do not need to do anything else.

You can find information in easy read and other languages and formats on this web page.

NHS England Vaccination Team