Not a Seasonal Vaccine starting 1st September 2024
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common but potentially severe virus that affects the respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and a blocked nose. While many recover without complications, RSV can cause serious illnesses, such as pneumonia, particularly in older adults and pregnant women. To address this, a targeted RSV vaccination program will begin on September 1, 2024, focusing on those most at risk.
Eligibility Criteria for RSV Vaccination
1. Older Adults (Aged 75-79 Years):
- From September 1, 2024, all adults turning 75 will be eligible for the RSV vaccine, offered as a single dose on or after their 75th birthday.
- A catch-up campaign will target those aged 75-79 by September 1, 2024, with vaccinations aimed to be completed by August 31, 2025.
- The vaccine will be available year-round to ensure continuous protection for newly eligible individuals.
2. Pregnant Women (28 Weeks Gestation or Later):
- All pregnant women reaching 28 weeks of gestation by September 1, 2024, will be eligible for a single dose of the vaccine.
- Vaccination is ideally administered at the 28-week antenatal visit, but eligibility continues until birth for those reaching 28 weeks later in their pregnancy.
Importance of Eligibility Criteria
These criteria are designed to protect those at highest risk. Older adults are more vulnerable to severe RSV due to age-related declines in immune function and pre-existing conditions. Pregnant women are also at increased risk due to changes in their immune system, making them and their unborn babies more susceptible to complications.
By focusing on these groups, the vaccination program aims to prevent severe RSV-related illnesses, reduce hospitalizations, and save lives. This targeted approach ensures that the most vulnerable receive the protection they need, maximizing the public health impact of the vaccination program.
