RSV is a common respiratory (lungs and airways) illness. RSV infection is more common from late autumn to early spring, but can happen at any time of year.

Sometimes, RSV infection can cause severe lower respiratory infections like pneumonia. It can also cause other life-threatening conditions.

Last year in Scotland, there were over 1,000 RSV cases in adults aged 75 and over.

The vaccine helps protect you by reducing your chances of getting an RSV infection.

Read more about RSV infection on NHS inform

Who can get the RSV vaccine

If you’re turning 75 years old between 1 August 2025 and 31 July 2026, you’ll be offered the RSV vaccine. This includes if your 75th birthday is on 1 August 2025 or 31 July 2026.

You can also get the RSV vaccine if you’ve not yet been vaccinated, and you’re aged between 75 and 79 years of age. To be eligible, your date of birth should be between 2 August 1945 and 31 July 1950. This is because the RSV vaccine is new to Scotland, and this group could not be given the vaccine before now.

In future years, the vaccine will be routinely offered to those turning 75 years old between 1 August and 31 July.

Getting the RSV vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against infections caused by RSV.

The RSV is also offered during pregnancy, regardless of age.

Read more about the RSV vaccine in pregnancy on NHS inform