While most RSV infections are usually mild, it can cause severe illness for older adults and in babies under one year of age. For those at greatest risk, RSV can cause pneumonia and bronchiolitis, leading to complications and hospitalisation. Studies show that the RSV vaccine reduces the risk of being admitted to hospital with RSV by about 81% for people aged 75 to 79.
NHS Scotland recommends you have the RSV vaccine if you are:
- 75 or older and haven’t had your RSV vaccine yet
- turning 75 between 1 August 2026 and 31 July 2027
- living in a care home for older adults, even if not yet 75 years old
- pregnant (from 28 weeks)
Older adults who are turning 75 years old between 1 August 2026 and 31 July 2027 will be sent an appointment letter. Pregnant women are encouraged to speak to their midwife about getting the vaccine from 28 weeks of their pregnancy.
Those aged 76-79 who have previously not received the RSV vaccine are also eligible for vaccination.
Contact your local immunisation team for further information.
For more information please visit www.nhsinform.scot/rsv-adult or www.nhsinform.scot/rsv-baby
See also nhsfife.org/dropin for details of drop in clinics near you offering the vaccination.
