The NHS has announced a revolutionary new vaccination programme aimed at protecting babies from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common yet potentially dangerous winter illness. The initiative, set to roll out this autumn, will offer the jab to infants under one year old, as well as vulnerable older children, to curb hospitalisations caused by severe respiratory infections.
Why the RSV Vaccine Matters
RSV is a leading cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in young children, often resulting in hospital admissions during colder months. The new vaccine, administered as a single injection, is expected to significantly reduce the strain on paediatric wards and protect thousands of infants from serious illness.
Who Will Be Eligible?
The programme targets:
- All babies under 8 months old
- High-risk children aged 8 months to 2 years
- Some immunocompromised older children
Health experts predict the vaccine could prevent up to 80% of RSV-related hospitalisations in the first year alone.
A Game-Changer for Winter Health
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, hailed the rollout as "a major step forward in child health protection." The vaccine uses monoclonal antibody technology to provide immediate immunity, unlike traditional vaccines that stimulate the body's own immune response.
Parents will be contacted by their GP or local NHS service when the vaccine becomes available in their area. The health service advises families to remain vigilant for RSV symptoms, which include difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, and high fever.
