Wales has extended its RSV vaccination programme to a wider group of adults ahead of the winter season, according to the Welsh Government. The respiratory syncytial virus vaccine is now available to some people aged 65 to 74 who are at higher risk, in addition to the existing offer for all adults aged 75 and over and for pregnant women.

Key points

  • Extended eligibility — higher-risk adults aged 65 to 74 can now get the RSV vaccine.
  • Existing groups — the vaccine remains available year-round to all adults aged 75 and over and to pregnant women.
  • Separate from flu — the RSV vaccine is distinct from flu and COVID-19 jabs, and all three protect against different viruses.

RSV is a common winter virus that usually causes mild symptoms. However, it can lead to serious illness such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in babies, older people and those with weakened immune systems. In Wales, the virus is linked to up to 1,000 hospital admissions and 9,000 GP appointments among people aged over 75 each year.

One parent, Joanne, a health visitor from Pembrokeshire, described how her daughter was admitted to hospital on Christmas Eve after testing positive for RSV. The baby's right lung filled with mucus and she needed a CPAP machine to help her breathe. She spent three weeks on the high dependency unit.

"Watching your baby struggle to breathe is terrifying," Joanne said. "She came so close to needing to be intubated."

She said the experience changed how the family lived for the whole of her daughter's first year, with every cold leading to a GP visit, inhalers or a return to hospital. Joanne urged other parents to take up the vaccine if offered, whether during pregnancy or for an older relative.

Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health Nerys Evans said Joanne's story was a reminder of how serious RSV can be. She encouraged everyone eligible to come forward for their flu jab, COVID-19 booster and RSV vaccine, noting that they protect against different viruses and can mean the difference between a mild illness and a hospital stay.

Editor's comment

What it means in practice

If you are pregnant, aged 75 or over, or aged 65 to 74 with certain health conditions, you may be able to get the RSV vaccine free on the NHS in Wales. It is separate from the flu and COVID-19 jabs, so check your eligibility and book an appointment with your GP surgery or local health board.

  • Check your eligibility — the vaccine is offered to pregnant women, all adults aged 75 and over, and some higher-risk adults aged 65 to 74.
  • Book separately — the RSV vaccine is not covered by the flu jab, so you may need a separate appointment.
  • Protect newborns — having the vaccine during pregnancy helps protect babies from RSV in their first months.