Public health: NHS kicks off groundbreaking RSV vaccine campaign

In a landmark moment for public health, NHS staff will officially commence provision of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine for older adults and pregnant women today for the first time in history.

With youth RSV cases increasing in prevalence over the last few years, a recent study suggested that this new programme could prevent around 5,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 A&E attendances for infants.

RSV is a major contributing factor to winter pressure across paediatric units up and down the country. It is a leading cause of infant mortality globally. Pregnant women will be able to protect their child with a jab once they are 28 weeks pregnant – the vaccine will also be made available for those aged 75-79.

Infection prevention

The aforementioned research also showed that, for the older adult demographic, the vaccination drive could stop:

• 2,500 hospital admissions
• 15,000 GP visits
• 60,000 RSV illnesses

“After months of preparation from our hardworking staff, for the first time ever we are now offering the RSV vaccine to pregnant women and older adults at greatest risk – helping to protect the lives of those vulnerable and ease pressures across the NHS as winter approaches,” said NHS England’s national director for vaccinations, Steve Russell.

Research gathered from women around the world has indicated that it helps reduce the risk of severe lung infection by 70% in the first six months of life. More than 100,000 women in the US have already benefitted from the vaccine.

A truly positive moment for public health

Government minister for public health and prevention, Andrew Gwynne MP, said: “RSV is preventable, and it is crucial that we take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. This new vaccine programme will reduce thousands of hospitalisations and save precious lives.”

Professor Dame Jenny Harries, CEO at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), added: “UKHSA has provided critical scientific information to evidence the benefits of a national RSV programme and so the rollout of the vaccine is a truly positive moment for the public’s health.

“Having a new RSV vaccine offers huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable, helping to protect lives as well as ease NHS winter pressures.”

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