Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period, typically November to February.

RSV can be especially dangerous for infants and the elderly, so from 1 September 2024, we will be offering two new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations to the following groups:

• Pregnant women from 28 weeks

The best way to protect babies against RSV infection is for the mother to have the vaccine during pregnancy. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe RSV lung infection by around 70% in the first six months of life. The vaccine boosts the pregnant woman’s immune system to make antibodies that can fight RSV infection. These antibodies then pass through the placenta to help protect the baby from birth.

• Adults aged 75 to 79 years old

RSV can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions. 

RSV vaccines will be offered to our patients from 2^nd September 2024. Please contact the surgery to book your appointment.

The shingles vaccine helps protect against shingles. It's recommended for all adults turning 65, those aged 70 to 79 and those aged 50 and over with a severely weakened immune system.

From 1 September 2023, you're eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 65.

You'll be offered 2 doses of the vaccine. These are given between 6 and 12 months apart.

Your GP should contact you to make an appointment to have your shingles vaccine. Contact your GP surgery if you think you're eligible for the shingles vaccine and you've not been contacted about it.

You'll remain eligible until your 80th birthday (but you can have your 2nd dose up until your 81st birthday).

If you turned 65 before 1 September 2023, you'll be eligible for the shingles vaccine when you turn 70.

Yes. If you are aged 65 years or over or you are at higher risk

Who is at risk?

• If you are aged 65 years or over or if you are on regular inhaled steroids
• If you have a chronic respiratory disease (including asthma)
• If you have chronic heart disease
• If you have chronic renal disease
• If you are diabetic
• If you have a weak immune system
• If you live in a long-stay residential or nursing home
• If you have a chronic liver disease
• If you are a carer

Flu vaccines will be offered to our patients from 7^th October 2024. Please contact the surgery to book your appointment.

Everybody aged 65 and over should now be immunised to help protect them against pneumococcal infection which can cause diseases such as pneumonia, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis. Please phone the surgery during September to make an appointment if the above applies to you.