What many people don’t realise is that the NHS now offers a vaccine that protects against this virus. It’s a newer offer for older adults, which is why you may not have heard much about it yet. But it can make a real difference to staying well and staying independent.

What’s the virus?

The virus is called RSV which stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It spreads easily through coughs and sneezes and can hit older lungs much harder than expected. In over 75’s it can cause pneumonia and flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions. It causes around 9,000 hospitalisations in those aged over 75 in the UK each year.

Why this vaccine matters:

The RSV vaccine can help protect you. A single dose:

· helps boosts protection for a few years

· helps prevent pneumonia

· reduces the risk of hospital stays

· supports staying active and independent

A GP’s view:

“RSV can be more serious in older adults than many people realise. Vaccination offers important protection against severe illness, including complications such as pneumonia. By reducing your risk of infection, it may also help protect those around you, including babies and young children, who can be particularly vulnerable to RSV. If you are aged 75 or over, I would strongly encourage you to take up the offer of vaccination this winter.” – Dr Rob Weaver, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer, NHS Somerset