Older adults will now be eligible for vaccine against virus with symptoms worse than a cold
RSV can cause serious complications in older adults 🏥
- All older adults over the age of 80 will now be eligible for the RSV vaccine.
- RSV is a common cause of respiratory infections.
- The RSV vaccine has been routinely available to older adults as they turn 75 years of age.
All pensioners over the age of 80 will now be eligible for a vaccine to help prevent a virus that can cause symptoms worse than the cold.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infections, and whilst symptoms are usually mild, for those more vulnerable, it can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
The vaccine programme began in September 2024, but it will now be extended to ensure even more people are protected. A UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) study published in July 2025 found that RSV vaccines are 82% effective at protecting older people from hospitalisation.
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infections. It is usually mild, symptoms usually begin within a few days and can include a blocked or runny nose, a cough, sneezing, fatigue and high temperatures. However, RSV can cause serious and life-threatening breathing difficulties for babies and older adults, including pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
Who is currently eligible for the RSV vaccine?
Since September 2024, the RSV vaccine has rolled out to those who are eligible in order to help reduce the risk of an infection causing a serious complication, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
Those who can get an RSV vaccine include:
- those 28 weeks pregnant or more – this will help protect your baby for the first few months after they're born
- those aged 75 to 79
- those who turned 80 years old after September 1, 2024.
When will the vaccine criteria change?
From April 1, 2026, anyone over the age of 80 will be eligible to come forward for the RSV vaccine. There will be no upper age limit, with all residents in care homes also eligible, regardless of their age.
Seasonal illnesses are continuing to spread this winter. You can find out more information on how to stay well during the colder months at NHS.UK.