NHS winter vaccination programme begins with new protection against common virus

The NHS is urging those who are eligible to start thinking about getting their winter vaccinations.

This year, the NHS will be offering Covid, flu and RSV vaccinations to keep those most at risk from being unwell protected over the winter months.

RSV, which stands for respiratory syncytial virus, is relatively unknown among the public. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and can be very serious for infants and the elderly.

The RSV rollout started on 1st September 2024, and it includes a vaccine for pregnant women over 28 weeks to help protect their newborn babies and a routine programme for those aged 75 to 79.

People aged 75 to 79 years old on 1st September 2024 will be invited to receive their RSV vaccination with their GP. Pregnant women should speak to their maternity service or their GP.

Flu vaccinations will be available for pregnant women and children from 1st September and from 3rd October, Covid and flu vaccinations will be available for all the other eligible cohorts.

Dr Chris Weiner, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Derby and Derbyshire, said: “Every winter, the NHS urges people to protect themselves from falling seriously unwell by getting vaccinated against viruses such as covid, flu, and now, RSV.

“While winter may seem far off, it’s crucial for those most at risk to consider getting vaccinated early. It is encouraging to see the UK leading the way in offering RSV vaccinations, which can be a severe illness, especially in young children and older adults.

“These vaccination programmes will save lives and help ease the strain on the NHS during the difficult winter period ahead, please come forward for your vaccine if you are eligible.”

Most flu and Covid vaccinations should be completed by Friday 20th December 2024.

RSV vaccine
Who is eligible?: People aged 75 to 79 and people who are 28 weeks pregnant or more. This will help protect your baby for the first few months after they are born.

When can I get it?: From September, you can speak to your maternity service or GP Surgery about getting your RSV vaccine.

Flu vaccine
Who is eligible?: All adults aged 65 or over, people with certain long term conditions, pregnant women, residents in a care home, people who are the main caregiver for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance, and people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system.

When can I get it?: Most eligible adults will be able to get the flu vaccine from 3rd October 2024. Some people may have their vaccination from September if: you’re pregnant, you’re due to have treatment that will weaken your immune system (such as chemotherapy). Book flu vaccines via the NHS website, your GP, maternity service or at a local pharmacy.

Covid vaccine
Who is eligible?: All adults aged 65 or over,  residents in a care home and people aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group.

When can I get it?: Eligible adults will be able to get the Covid vaccine from 3rd October 2024. Book Covid vaccines via the NHS website, your GP or at a local pharmacy.