NHS urges uptake of respiratory vaccines

NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough is urging uptake of the RSV vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine

The NHS has urged vulnerable people to take two free vaccinations to prevent winter respiratory illnesses.

NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough said the RSV vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine were both vital for protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), pneumonia and meningitis.

RSV is commonly associated with colds and coughs but can lead to more severe conditions such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Of the 38,500 people eligible for the RSV vaccine in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire, about half have yet to come forward for it, while 40,000 people eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine are yet to take it.

The RSV vaccine is offered to pregnant women from 28 weeks and anyone aged 75-79.

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against bacterial infections that can cause illnesses such as meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia. People over 65 are offered this vaccine, and only one dose is needed.

Cali Makewell, integrated vaccination Service lead with NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: "We really want to raise awareness of these two lesser-known vaccines which can both help protect vulnerable people from some nasty illnesses.

"Both are easily available by contacting your GP practice to book in, and you can have both vaccines at the same time.

"Coughs, colds, wheeziness and breathlessness all increase over the colder months of the year, sometimes requiring treatment in hospital.

"But by having these two vital vaccines you can help reduce your risk of getting seriously unwell this winter."