Expectant mothers and people over 75 are being urged to get vaccinated against a potentially deadly virus following a record number of cases in Australia.
Health chiefs say the Australian winter often predicts how viruses will spread in the UK, and already this year cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have steadily risen in many areas.
The virus, which is a common cause of coughs and colds, may also cause a chest infection called bronchiolitis.
Some people have a high risk of becoming seriously ill with it, including babies and adults over 75.
According to NHS England, RSV is a leading cause of infant deaths worldwide and a main cause of children being taken into hospital.
NHS England is encouraging pregnant women to get a jab that protects against RSV so their babies are protected after birth.
Kate Brintworth, chief midwifery officer for NHS England, said: “While for most adults RSV only causes mild, cold-like symptoms, for older adults and young children it can lead to serious breathing problems that can end up in hospitalisation.
“Getting vaccinated while pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from the moment they are born, and now is the time for mums to act, to make sure their babies are protected ahead of their first few months this winter, when there tends to be more bugs circulating.”
Source: The Independent, 5 August 2025
0 Comments
Recommended Comments
There are no comments to display.
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now