Introduction of new vaccination programmes against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for pregnant women

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) is a group of experts in the UK that advises the Government on vaccines and immunisation. In September 2023, the JCVI recommended developing an RSV immunisation programme for infants and older adults. 

The RSV programme is a new programme that will protect thousands of infants and older people from serious illness each winter, keeping more people out of hospital and from needing to see a GP. 

The vaccination could save 1,000 young children every year in Wales from going to hospital and could save the lives of over 100 older people each year.   

There are now safe and effective vaccines available and it has been recommended that an RSV immunisation programme be planned across all nations of the UK. 

We plan to begin delivery of the vaccine in September, for more information, please head to Public Health Wales: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination information - Public Health Wales (nhs.wales)