NHS urgently invites millions to get 'live-saving' RSV vaccination

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

More than one million Brits are being urged to get a potentially "life-saving" new jab against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

NHS officials have urgently invited elderly people in England to come forward and get vaccinated against the virus, which in severe cases can cause serious complications like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

More than 1.3 million older people will be invited to get the vaccine in the coming days, NHS England has said. Adults over the age of 75, babies under six months old and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk of a severe RSV infection, the NHS warns.

Steve Russell, national director for vaccinations and screening at NHS England, 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 we are now working hard to reach anyone who hasn’t yet been jabbed and urging them to book an appointment. “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.