Around 1.3 million older people have not yet come forward to receive their respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, and the NHS are urging them to get vaccinated. Health chiefs warn it is “not just a winter illness.”

Those who are aged 75-79 or turned 80 after 1st September 2024 will this week receive their invite, should they not already be vaccinated against RSV, and are being encouraged to book an appointment with their GP.

RSV is active throughout the year, and affects the airways and the lungs. For older or vulnerable adults, this can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia.

On 1st September, the NHS started vaccinated people against RSV for the first time ever, with 1.5 million coming forward to receive their free vaccination, more than 1.3 million of these being between 75 and 80.

A study in the Lancet revealed that the first season of vaccination could prevent up to 2,500 hospital admissions, 15,000 GP visits and 60,000 RSV illnesses in older adults. Vaccinating against RSV Will reduce the risk of severe symptoms.

Pregnant women are also eligible for the vaccine after 28 weeks, as RSV is a leading cause of infant mortality. Since September, 150,000 women have received the vaccine.

Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccinations and Screening, said: “RSV is not just a winter illness. We see cases increase in winter but it can occur all year round and can make older people seriously ill, so it is vital everyone eligible gets vaccinated – which is why are now working hard to reach anyone who hasn’t yet been jabbed and urging them to book an appointment.

“Vaccines for RSV, COVID-19 and flu protect you against different respiratory infections so it’s important you have each vaccine when you are offered them.

“I would encourage everyone we contact in the coming days, or anyone who has previously been invited but hasn’t yet taken up the offer, to get the RSV vaccine as soon as possible by contacting your GP. It could prevent you developing a severe illness like pneumonia and even save your life”.

Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist, UK Health Security Agency, said: “RSV can be severe in older people, causing serious lung infections like pneumonia and flare-ups of existing conditions. If you’re eligible, there is good evidence it will help give you protection – speak with your GP practice about getting the jab”.