Experts hope the vaccine will prevent thousands of hospital admissions (Image: Getty)
More than one million older people are being urged to come forward for the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) , as health chiefs warn it is “not just a winter illness”.
RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. It can cause more serious illness in infants and older people who are particularly vulnerable.
The rolled out the first ever routine vaccination programme this winter, with estimates suggesting it could prevent up to 2,500 hospital admissions, 15,000 GP visits and 60,000 cases of RSV among older adults in the first season.
But around half of older people who are eligible, or 1.3 million people, are yet to get jabbed. Invites will be sent this week to people aged 75-79, or who turned 80 after September 1 last year, encouraging them to book an appointment.
Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, said: “RSV is not just a illness.
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“We see cases increase in winter but it can occur all year round and can make older people seriously ill.
“It is vital everyone eligible gets vaccinated – which is why are now working hard to reach anyone who hasn’t yet been jabbed and urging them to book an appointment.”
Nearly 1.5 million people have received the RSV vaccine, including 1.3 million older adults and 150,000 women.
The NHS has also delivered 18.4 million vaccinations this winter, and 9.8 million jabs.
Mr Russell added: “Vaccines for RSV, -19 and flu protect you against different respiratory infections so it’s important you have each vaccine when you are offered them.
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“I would encourage everyone we contact in the coming days, or anyone who has previously been invited but hasn’t yet taken up the offer, to get the RSV vaccine as soon as possible by contacting your GP.
“It could prevent you developing a severe illness like pneumonia and even save your life.”
Dr Conall Watson, a consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “RSV can be severe in older people, causing serious lung infections like pneumonia and flare-ups of existing conditions.
“If you’re eligible, there is good evidence it will help give you protection – speak with your GP practice about getting the jab.”