Older adults in NI to be offered vaccination against RSV
The Department of Health has approved plans to expand the vaccination programme to protect more people against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and its complications.
From April, all adults over 80 years of age will be eligible for the RSV vaccination. Vaccinations will also be offered to all residents of care homes for older adults, starting later this month. This is an expansion of the RSV programme for older adults launched in 2024, which was initially available to those aged 75 to 79 years of age.
This is a one-off vaccination that does not need to be repeated each year. The decision follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) in June 2025, which recommended expanding the RSV vaccination programme.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “RSV is a common virus which usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, we know that in older adults, it can cause severe complications which can lead to hospitalisation, adding pressure to our already stretched Health and Social Care system.
“I would encourage all those eligible, to avail of the vaccination when offered in order to help protect yourself from illness.
“I have approved the expansion of the RSV vaccination programme, which builds on the adult programme in place since 2024. There is also a maternal RSV vaccination programme available for all pregnant women aimed at protecting their newborn babies until they are old enough to receive the vaccine.”
Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride said: “RSV has the potential to lead to serious health complications, particularly in older people who are more likely to have underlying chronic health conditions, such as lung and heart disorders.
“Vaccination programmes are an essential public health measure that can help protect the most vulnerable members of our society.
“Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, and I would urge anyone who is eligible for the RSV vaccination to take it.
“The RSV vaccine for older adults and residents of care homes for older adults can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, and many eligible individuals are likely to be offered both vaccines at the same time during April, May and June this year.
“If older people are not vaccinated, quite simple, they are not protected.”
