Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds.

It usually gets better by itself, but it can be serious for some babies and older adults. The condition is often referred to as RSV. 

RSV is very common. Almost all children get it before the age of 2 and it is not usually serious. You can read more about RSV, how to avoid spreading it, signs and symptoms, how to ease symptoms and when to seek medical help, on the NHS website. 

Some people have a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they have RSV, including babies under 6 months old, children born prematurely and adults over 75 years old. 

What does Frome Medical Practice offer? 

From September 2024, the NHS is introducing a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programme. 

You’ll be able to get the vaccine if: 

• You’re aged 75 to 79 
• You’re 28 weeks or more pregnant (to help protect your baby for the first few months after they’re born) 

Frome Medical Practice will contact patients aged 75 to 79 and those who are 28 weeks or more pregnant to invite them to book their RSV vaccination. Invitations for the RSV vaccination will be separate to invitations for the flu vaccination, which will come later in the autumn. 

The RSV invite will be by text (with a clickable link to book the appointment), if we have your mobile number, or by letter or telephone call if not. 

Please wait for us to get in touch about your vaccination. 

If you need help with using the clickable appointment booking links we send by text our digital health team can help.

Find more information about the support they offer online 

Other support available

For more information about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) please visit the NHS website