Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness which is particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. The virus is common over the winter period, typically November to February, and can lead to pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalisation and intensive care in severe cases.
A new RSV vaccine is available, offering an opportunity to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV and helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS.
The vaccine will be available to pregnant women (at week 28 or later) and everyone aged 75 to 79.
The practice is inviting all eligible patients to book a vaccination appointment. If you are eligible and have not yet been contacted, please call the practice on 020 3883 5700 for an appointment.
For more information on the virus and the vaccination programme, please visit http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/