Residents in Shepton Mallet are being urged to take advantage of a new vaccination programme that aims to protect both infants and older adults from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

The UK will be the first country in the world to launch a national programme using the same vaccine to protect both newborns and those over 75 from this potentially severe virus.

RSV is a common virus affecting the respiratory system, including the lungs and airways. While it often causes mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to serious illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants and the elderly. It is one of the leading causes of lower respiratory tract infections in children under two and can be especially dangerous for premature babies, those with heart or lung conditions, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In older adults, RSV can cause severe respiratory illness and is a significant cause of hospitalisation.

The new vaccination programme, which begins on 1 September, will include a vaccine for pregnant women over 28 weeks to protect their newborns, as well as routine vaccinations for those over 75.

A one-off campaign will also target people aged 75 to 79. These groups have been identified as being at the greatest risk from RSV, based on advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Each year in the UK, RSV accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations of children under five and up to 30 infant deaths. Additionally, the virus causes around 9,000 hospital admissions in people over 75 annually. The new vaccination programme is expected to significantly reduce the strain on the NHS, particularly during the challenging winter months. Over 34,000 people aged 75 and above in Somerset will be eligible for the vaccine.

Andrew Gwynne, Minister for Public Health and Prevention, emphasised the programme's importance, stating, "As someone who has seen the devastating effects of RSV firsthand, I am thrilled to see the UK leading in the way in tackling this devastating disease. My own grandson contracted RSV when he was just days old, leading to weeks in intensive care and a lifelong impact on his health. I don't want anyone to go through what he went through. Not only will this vaccine save lives and protect the most vulnerable, it will help ease pressure on our NHS, freeing up thousands of hospital beds as we head into winter."

Eligible individuals aged 75-79 will receive invitations from their GP to get the RSV vaccination starting in September. Women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant will be contacted by their maternity services to arrange the vaccine for their baby.

Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, urged residents to take advantage of the programme, saying, "RSV is a very serious illness, infecting up to 90% of children by the age of two and causing thousands of babies and older people to spend time in hospital over winter – so this rollout is a huge step forward and will undoubtedly save the lives of many of those most at risk."

Shona Turnbull-Kirk, Associate Director for Health Equity Programmes and Resilience from NHS Somerset, also encouraged eligible residents in the area to come forward: "This new vaccine offers huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV, helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS. You will be contacted about getting your vaccine, so please do come forward if you are eligible."

The RSV vaccination will be available throughout the year, but residents in Street, Glastonbury, Wells, and Shepton Mallet are encouraged to get vaccinated in September to ensure protection during the peak winter season. Look out for information from your GP or midwife regarding where and when you can receive your RSV vaccination.