NHS 111 Wales

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory tract infections. Most RSV infections occur in autumn and winter. RSV infection is more common in children but is most serious for small babies and older adults. Most people have had RSV as a child, but a past infection may not prevent you from getting RSV again.

For most people, RSV causes a mild illness, such as a cough or cold, and usually gets better on its own. However, a small number of older adults are at risk of becoming very unwell, especially if they have other health problems, such as heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system.

Each year in Wales, up to 1000 people aged over 75 need hospital care due to RSV, and some of these people may die.

You can help protect yourself against serious illness from RSV by having the RSV vaccination when it is offered to you.

People who are 74 are eligible for a vaccine on or after their 75th birthday.
Those 75-79 - any time during this age range.
80 years or over (if you were born after 2 September 1944) - anytime

If you are eligible for the vaccine, look out for an appointment letter or book an appointment at a clinic being advertised by your GP surgery when invited to do so. If you think you might have missed your invitation, speak to your healthcare provider.

There is also an RSV vaccination programme for pregnant women. For more information, visit:Information about vaccinations in pregnancy - Public Health Wales

Public Health Wales have more general information about RSV and the vaccine here.

Last Updated: 01/01/0001 00:00:00
The information on this page has been adapted by NHS Wales from original content supplied by