Published: 10 February 2026
The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. Most people get it several times during their life.
It usually gets better by itself, but in some people (especially babies and older adults) it can cause illnesses such as:
- pneumonia (a lung infection)
- bronchiolitis (a chest infection that affects babies)
These illnesses can cause serious breathing problems. They may need to be treated in hospital and can be life-threatening.
You can get a free RSV vaccination on the NHS if:
- you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more
- you’re aged 75 to 79 years old
- you turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024
ELIGIBILITY UPDATE FROM APRIL 2026:
From the 1 April 2026 the eligibility criteria for the older adult RSV programme will also include those aged 80 years and over (with no upper age limit).
In addition, all residents in care homes for older adults will also become eligible, regardless of their age, due to their increased risk from RSV.
For more information click the link below:
https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/my-health/vaccinations/rsv-vaccinations-in-somerset/