A new vaccine is currently being offered in Wales for the first time, aimed at preventing hundreds of deaths and thousands of hospitalisations caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This vaccine targets babies and older adults, as RSV poses a severe risk to these demographics. Pregnant women over 28 weeks pregnant are being offered the vaccine to provide immunity to the unborn baby. Additionally, individuals over the age of 75, who are also at risk from RSV, are eligible to receive the vaccine.
The RSV vaccine rollout began on Monday, September 2, and appointments are not required for those who are eligible. Each health board in Wales has its own approach to offering the vaccine. In the Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB region, vaccine centres are providing the vaccine without the need for appointments. Similarly, Cardiff and Vale UHB is sending personal letters to invite eligible individuals for vaccination, with various locations available for vaccination.
Betsi Cadwaladr UHB in north Wales will contact pregnant individuals around 26 weeks pregnant and will begin inviting those over 28 weeks for the RSV vaccine in September. Swansea Bay UHB is finalizing its plans for vaccine distribution. In Powys, people can receive the vaccine at their GP practice or a vaccination centre, while those over 75 will be invited directly. Aneurin Bevan UHB is offering the vaccine to pregnant women through midwives and inviting older individuals to their GP surgeries.
Plans from Hywel Dda UHB are still pending. The goal of the RSV vaccine rollout in Wales is to provide essential protection to those at risk from the virus and reduce its impact on public health.