RSV vaccine: Who is eligible and what does it do?

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “Respiratory syncytial virus is a common and contagious virus that primarily targets your respiratory tract,” explains Dr Ashwin Sharma, from online pharmacy MedExpress. “These symptoms could suggest a need for additional support or treatment.” While most RSV infections resolve completely within one to two weeks without lasting effects, severe cases can occasionally lead to long-term complications. “RSV can cause severe respiratory complications in high-risk groups – which includes infants, adults over 65, and individuals with chronic lung disease or other underlying health conditions,” says Sharma. “Babies are particularly vulnerable as their smaller lungs offer limited defence against the virus, which can lead to bronchiolitis.” In terms of how the vaccine works, Sharma adds: “The RSV vaccine contains a harmless piece of the virus that triggers the body to produce protective antibodies.