Older adults in the Western Isles are encouraged to take up RSV vaccine offer

NHS Western Isles is encouraging older adults to take up the offer of vaccination against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

RSV is a common and highly infectious virus that affects the breathing system. It generally causes mild illness with cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, fever, or decrease in appetite. RSV can be very serious for those who are at the highest risk of serious illness from the infection, including older adults and babies.

Appointment letters have been sent out to local residents who are turning 75 years old between 1 August 2025 and 31 July 2026 and appointments are underway. The vaccine will also be offered to anyone aged between 75 and 79 years of age who has not yet been vaccinated. If you haven't received a letter but think you are eligible, please contact the vaccination centre by phoning 0808 196 8383 or emailing wi.vaccination@nhs.scot.

The RSV vaccine, which was first offered in Scotland last year, has been successful in reducing hospitalisations among those who are more vulnerable to serious complications of RSV infection. A study published earlier this year showed a 62% reduction in RSV related hospitalisations among eligible older adult age groups following the vaccine’s introduction in August 2024.

The RSV vaccine is also offered during pregnancy, with vaccines offered from 28 weeks. RSV is the leading cause of respiratory hospital admissions for young babies in Scotland. Getting vaccinated while pregnant will help protect newborn babies from serious illness caused by an RSV infection. 

Gordon Jamieson, Chief Executive, NHS Western Isles, said: “RSV can be very serious, and in some cases even life threatening. We are encouraging everyone who is eligible to take the offer of the vaccine to reduce the chances of serious illness.

“It is extremely encouraging to see the results of the study showing a significant reduction in RSV related hospitalisations as a result of the vaccine.”

Read more about the positive impact of the RSV vaccination programme in reducing hospitalisations in Scotland: Launch of new RSV vaccine results in encouraging reduction in hospitalisations – News – Public Health Scotland

More information on the RSV vaccine for older adults is available on NHS Inform RSV vaccine for adults | NHS inform

More information on the RSV vaccine during pregnancy is available on NHS Inform RSV vaccine during pregnancy | NHS inform   

More information on RSV vaccine uptake is available on the PHS Vaccination Surveillance dashboard.