RSV - Frequently Asked Questions
What is RSV?
RSV, also known as Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a common respiratory illness affecting the airways and lungs. RSV can make you wheezy and short of breath but can also lead to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia and other life-threatening conditions. You can catch RSV at any time, but cases do increase over the winter.
Who is eligible for the RSV vaccine?
If you become 75 years of age from 1 August 2024 up to and including 31 July 2025, you will be offered the RSV vaccine.
RSV is a new programme and this year the vaccine will also be offered to those who are already aged 75 up to 79 on 1 August 2024. This means you will be offered the vaccine if your date of birth is between 2 August 1944 and 31 July 1950 inclusive.
The RSV vaccine is also offered during pregnancy, regardless of age, from 28 weeks. Having the vaccine will reduce the risk of passing an RSV infection on to newborn babies, even if they are born early.
How do I book an appointment?
If you are eligible for the RSV vaccine, you can book an appointment by calling the NHS Borders Vaccination Hub on 01896 809 250.
I can't attend my appointment.
It is important that you attend your vaccination appointment, but we understand this isn’t always possible.
You can change your appointment by calling the Vaccination Hub on 01896 809 250. Cancelling or changing your appointment in advance means that we can offer your appointment to someone else.
If you are booking or changing an appointment for someone else, please phone the Hub on 01896 809 250. This way the person you are booking for will still receive future invitations.
Can I still have my RSV vaccination if I am unwell on the day?
If you have Covid-19, flu virus, or a fever you should not attend your vaccination appointment as you could spread the virus to others who might be more at risk. You will still need to get the vaccine, but you should wait until you have fully recovered. You can arrange another appointment by calling the Vaccinations Hub on 01896 809 250.
Can I still catch RSV related illnesses after having the vaccine?
It is possible to catch RSV after having the vaccine, but symptoms are likely to be mild and not last as long. It can take a few days for your body to build up extra protection from the vaccination.
How are vaccines given?
Vaccinations are given as an injection in the upper arm. It takes a few days for the vaccine to work.
I have a fear of needles, is there another option?
If you have a fear of needles, please let the person (vaccinator) giving you your vaccination know. Feeling nervous can be a natural response for some people. Your vaccinator understands this and will help you. The needles used are small and you should only feel a tiny scratch.
Vaccine safety
All medicines, including vaccines, are tested for safety and effectiveness before they are allowed to be used. Once they are in use, the safety of vaccines continues to be monitored by the medicines and health care products regulatory agency.
The Pfizer Abrysvo vaccine will be used for the RSV programme. This is not a live vaccine and does not cause RSV infection.
Side effects of the RSV vaccine
You might have some side effects after having the vaccine, these are usually mild and disappear within a few days. This shows the vaccine is working and teaching your body’s immune system how to protect itself from the RSV virus. Side effects might include pain, swelling or redness at the site of injection, headache, feeling sick, tiredness. These can usually be managed by taking paracetamol and drinking fluids. A member of staff will discuss this with you at your appointment. Other side effects are rare.
Are there any reasons why I should not have the RSV vaccine?
Most eligible people can have the vaccine but it’s important that you tell the person giving you your vaccination if you have ever had a serious allergy or reaction to a vaccine.
Is there anything I should bring to my appointment?
If you are taking medication, it’s important that you bring a list of your medicines to discuss with the vaccinator.
Can I bring a friend, family member or carer to my appointment?
Yes, you can ask someone to come with you to your appointment. Where possible we would suggest limiting this to one person however, we do accommodate for families with children.
I need an interpreter at my appointment, what should I do?
If you need a BSL interpreter or a deaf-blind guide at your vaccination appointment, please call 01896 809250 or email Vaccination.BookingHub@borders.scot.nhs.uk as soon as possible.
Telephone interpreting for other languages is available at our clinics (via Big Word / language line), just let one of our admin staff know when you arrive at the clinic.
I have no transport to get to my appointment?
If you need transport call Scottish Borders Council on 0300 100 1800. We would suggest that you contact Scottish Borders Council as soon as possible as it might take a little while for the Council to make an arrangement for you.