Starting April 1, 2026, the NHS will broaden its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination program to include all adults aged 80 and over, as well as residents of care homes for the elderly. This important change aims to boost protection for those most at risk from severe respiratory infections.
Labour Party Health Minister Stephen Kinnock emphasized the significance of this expansion: “By including adults aged 80 and above and care home residents in this life-saving vaccination programme, we are taking a vital step to safeguard those most vulnerable. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has thoroughly reviewed the evidence and strongly supports this extension.”
He urged eligible individuals to accept the vaccine when invited by their GP, highlighting that vaccination is the best way to protect personal health and reduce pressure on the NHS during winter months.
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Dr. Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), explained the risks posed by RSV: “Although less widely known than Covid or flu, RSV causes thousands of hospitalizations and serious health risks in older adults each year. Our data shows that adults aged 75 to 79 who have received the vaccine are significantly less likely to be hospitalized.”
He further noted the success of RSV vaccination in pregnant women, which has effectively protected newborns. “When offered the vaccine, don’t hesitate,” he advised.
Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, praised the NHS team’s efforts: “In just 17 months, over 2.5 million RSV vaccines have been administered, reducing hospital admissions by a third among 75- to 79-year-olds last winter. Expanding this protection to those over 80 and care home residents will further prevent serious illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, helping keep more people healthy and out of hospital.”
Burton also highlighted the importance of early vaccination ahead of the winter season and strongly encouraged all eligible individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible.