What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and who can get the vaccine?

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.

Who's at risk from RSV

RSV is very common. Almost all children get it at least once before they're 2 years old.

It's not usually serious, but some babies and adults have a higher risk of getting seriously ill, particularly:

• babies under 6 months old
• children who were born prematurely
• adults over 75 years
• babies, children and older adults with a weakened immune system, or long-term lung or heart conditions

In babies, RSV is a common cause of a type of chest infection called bronchiolitis. This can cause breathing problems and may need to be treated in hospital.

RSV can also cause a serious lung infection (pneumonia) in babies and older adults.

How to avoid catching and spreading RSV

RSV is spread in the coughs and sneezes of someone who has the virus.

There are some things you can do to reduce your chances of getting it or spreading it to anyone else, such as:

• wash your hands and your child's hands often
• wash or wipe down toys and clean surfaces regularly
• avoid sharing things like cutlery and cups
• use disposable tissues and throw them away as soon as you've used them
• keep newborn babies away from anyone with a cold or the flu – especially if they were born prematurely or have serious health conditions

Treatment for children at risk of serious infections

Children who have a very high risk of getting seriously ill from RSV may be given treatment in the winter (between October and March) to help reduce the risk of RSV causing severe bronchiolitis.