iStockOlder people and pregnant women in Scotland have been encouraged to get the RSV vaccine.
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is being rolled out by the NHS to people aged between 75 and 79, as well as pregnant women in Scotland.
According to the NHS website, RSV is a common respiratory virus and causes a mild illness with cold-like symptoms in most but can cause severe lower respiratory infections like pneumonia.
The infection can happen at any time of year but is more common from late autumn to early spring.
The virus is highly infectious and spreads easily when people with the virus cough or sneeze.
The vaccine roll out comes after over 1,000 cases were recorded in Scotland within adults aged 75 and over.
Abrysvo is the vaccine used in Scotland, and unlike others it is not a live vaccine which mean it does not cause RSV infection.
The vaccine works to protect older people, pregnant women and their babies against serious illnesses that can be caused by the infection.
The NHS website says RSV is the most common reason that babies are admitted to hospital with breathing problems, with premature babies and under two-year-olds being most at risk.
Who can get the RSV vaccine
If you’re turning 75 years old between August 1, 2024 and July 31, 2025, you’ll be offered the RSV vaccine. This includes if your 75th birthday is on August 1, 2024 or July 31, 2025.
The vaccine will also be offered to anyone who is aged 75 to 79 years on August 1, 2024.
In future years, the vaccine will be routinely offered to those turning 75 between August 1 and July 31.
How to get the RSV vaccine
If you are eligible for the vaccine you will be contacted by your local NHS immunisation team when it’s time to get the vaccine.
Most immunisation teams will begin inviting patients from August 2024 onwards.
Public Health Scotland has been contacted for comment.
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