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NHS issue RSV vaccination reminder to Surrey public
The NHS in Surrey is encouraging all those invited to have their Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine to take up the offer and get protected against the virus.
Of the 46,000 people living in Surrey who meet the eligibility criteria, just over half have received their vaccination (58%)*.
RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds and whilst it can get better by itself, it can also be serious for some babies and older adults.
The RSV vaccine helps protect against respiratory syncytial virus, a common virus that can make babies and older adults seriously ill. It’s recommended during pregnancy and for adults aged 75-79.
Latest national statistics show that around 1.3m older people have not yet had the vaccine. Invites have been sent over the last week to all those not yet vaccinated as local NHS leaders encourage the public, particularly the older generation, to book their vaccine as soon as possible.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer at Surrey Heartlands NHS Integrated Care Board, said:
Respiratory syncytial virus spreads all year round and for the older generation the virus can lead to severe health conditions which can be life threatening.
Over half of our eligible population in Surrey have had the vaccine but we really want to encourage all those who have received an invitation to get booked in as soon as possible.
It is not just a winter virus and only one dose of the vaccine is needed to reduce the risk of severe symptoms and illnesses such as lung infections like pneumonia.
Further information about RSV, symptoms and who to contact if you are concerned about yours or your child’s health is available on the NHS website.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)