Push for Dorset's expectant mums and elderly to get RSV vaccine

Over 124,000 people in the South West have had the new jab

Author: Aaron Harper

There's a push for pregnant women and elderly people across the South West to take up the offer of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination this winter.

So far, 124,867 jabs have been given in just over two months, as the NHS steps up it's efforts to protect people from COVID-19, flu and RSV.

RSV infections are said to be common and are particularly threatening to young children and older people as it can lead to severe lung infections such as pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis.

Expectant mums can get the vaccine at any point from 28 weeks into their pregnancy, alongside their maternity care, or they can get the jab by by request at their local GP practice, while older adults will be invited by their local GP practice.

Dr Michael Marsh, Medical Director for NHS England South West, said: “We see thousands of young children admitted to hospital each winter with RSV which often causes bronchiolitis. It is a particularly horrible illness for under ones, and especially in the first few weeks and months of life. I urge all pregnant women and people to speak to their maternity team to organise their vaccine.

“Available when you reach 28 weeks of pregnancy, it offers the best protection for babies and can prevent them from becoming very unwell.’’

Dr Alasdair Wood, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West said: ‘’RSV is a really common infection. For most people it will be a mild illness like a common cold, but sometimes it can cause really nasty infections. In particular for young babies it can cause them to be admitted to hospital or even intensive care.

‘’This is the first time the RSV vaccine has been offered to pregnant women and older adults in the NHS, and is really going to help protect babies, families, and older adults ahead of winter.

“This vaccine is also vital to help protect our NHS as we head into the busy winter period. While RSV infections can occur all year round, cases usually peak in winter at the same time as infections from COVID and flu viruses. This puts real pressure on hospitals and paediatric services.

‘’We know that not everyone who is eligible for this vaccine has come forward yet. I would strongly advise all pregnant women to speak to their maternity teams today to organise their vaccine against RSV. Alongside the other vaccines offered in pregnancy, such as whooping cough, this is absolutely the best protection you can offer your baby from the moment they are born. I also encourage those aged 75-79 to attend their vaccine appointment once they are invited by their GP practice.’’

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