Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine for older adults

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an infectious disease of the airways and lungs. In Northern Ireland, a vaccination programme is available to protect older people against RSV. You can get the vaccine from your GP.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection

RSV infection often causes symptoms similar to a cold including cough, sore throat, sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. It can also make you become wheezy or short of breath and lead to pneumonia and other life-threatening conditions.

RSV is can spread through coughs and sneezes.

RSV infections can occur all year round but cases peak every winter.

Getting the vaccine

By having the RSV vaccine, you reduce the risk of developing RSV.

You get the vaccine in your upper arm. Most people will only need one dose and this can be given at any time in the year.

People who are eligible for the vaccine

You can get the vaccine if you are aged between 75 and 79 years old (until the day before your 80th birthday).

Your GP will contact you and invite you for vaccination if you are eligible.

Special arrangements will be made for people who live in care homes to receive the vaccine.

You may be able to get the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines (like shingles or pneumococcal). You can discuss this with the person giving you the vaccine.

Side effects of getting the vaccine

Like all vaccines, the RSV vaccine can cause side effects, but they’re generally mild and do not last long.

Common side effects that occur in at least one in 10 people are pain, swelling or redness where the injection is given.

If the side effects continue for more than a few days, contact your GP or practice nurse.

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