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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

RSV vaccine

RSV vaccination reduces the risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus disease in eligible older adults and helps protect young infants when given during pregnancy.

What is it?

RSV commonly causes cold-like illness but can cause bronchiolitis, pneumonia and serious illness in babies and older or vulnerable adults.

Where it may be relevant

  • Pregnant people during the recommended gestational window
  • Older adults within current programme criteria
  • People seeking advice based on age and medical risk

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Single dose

Eligible pregnancy or older-adult programme

Dose 1Day 0

Eligibility and timing depend on the current programme and product.

Who may be eligible

  • People meeting current maternal or older-adult recommendations
  • Anyone for whom the selected product is licensed and clinically appropriate

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the RSV vaccine protect against?

It reduces severe RSV disease in eligible people and can protect babies through maternal vaccination.

Who should consider the RSV vaccine?

It is relevant mainly in pregnancy and for eligible older adults.

How many doses of the RSV vaccine are needed?

Current programmes use a single dose at the recommended age or pregnancy stage.

Can I have the RSV vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the RSV vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.