RSV Symptoms
Symptoms can include: a runny or blocked nose, a cough, sneezing, tiredness, a high temperature. Usually mild and self-limiting RSV can be severe in infants and older adults who are at increased risk of lower respiratory tract infection, including bronchiolitis in infants.
Symptoms such as worsening cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, confusion and in babies’ loss of appetite / difficulty feeding should not be ignored. Urgent medical help should be sought as these may be signs of a more serious infection such as pneumonia or Bronchiolitis.
How do you catch RSV?
RSV is transmitted by droplets that are released into the air when a person coughs or sneezes. It is also spread by secretions from contact with an infected person. The virus can survive on surfaces or objects for about 4 to 7 hours so there is also a risk of infection if you touch contaminated surfaces then touch your eyes, nose or mouth without washing your hands. Good hand sanitation is vital to prevent the spread of the RSV virus.
Who should get the RSV Vaccination?
The RSV vaccine is being offered on the NHS to the following groups:
- Pregnant women from 28 weeks gestation
- Individuals between the age of 75 and 79
- Anyone who turns 80 after the 1 st September
Nomad Masta are offering this vaccine privately to adults aged 60 years and older who are not eligible to receive the RSV vaccine on the NHS. If you live with a chronic condition or are immunosuppressed, vaccination is a sensible consideration, particularly if you travel for work or regularly mixing with other people.
RSV Vaccination Options
The approved vaccine to protect against RSV virus and the potential serious breathing problems associated is called Abrysvo and is manufactured by Pfizer. This vaccine was shown to be effective in preventing lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in older adults as well as infants born to vaccinated mothers for up to 6 months of life. A single vaccine can be given at any time of the year to infants, pregnant women and those aged over 60 years of age
Level of protection: Dependent of age of person vaccinated
Protection duration: For adults aged over 60 years clinical studies show the vaccine provides protection for 2 years.
Book an Appointment
Book an appointment at a Nomad clinic to get vaccinated against RSV. We can also administer the RSV vaccine during your travel health consultation.
