The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is expanding its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination program, making it available to approximately 3 million adults aged 80 and over, along with care home residents. This significant expansion, announced April 2, 2026, aims to prevent thousands of annual hospital admissions.
RSV, a common virus infecting the lungs, can lead to severe conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia, posing a particular risk to older adults with symptoms including difficulty breathing and potential hospitalization. The virus accounts for an estimated 9,000 hospitalizations in UK residents over 75 each year.
Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist RSV Lead at the UK Health Security Agency, stated that new evidence shows the vaccine reduces the risk of hospitalization by around 75%. "It's great news that the vaccine is now available to everyone aged 75 or over, including all those aged over 80."
This rollout follows the government's acceptance of advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Previously, the RSV vaccine was offered to adults turning 75 and those aged 75-79, as well as pregnant women from 28 weeks to protect newborns.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock commented, "By expanding this life-saving vaccination programme... we are taking another important step to protect those most at risk."