RSV jabs to be rolled out from next week

It is hoped the vaccine could help reduce hospital pressure during the winter when RSV often spikes

Nearly 5,000 islanders will be eligible for the new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine for protection against coughs and colds from Monday.

The Government of Jersey said RSV was a leading cause of respiratory illness worldwide and in the UK there were about 40,000 admitted to hospital with the illness every year.

It said the vaccine would be offered to pregnant women and islanders aged 75-79.

Pregnant women will be offered the vaccine from week 28 of their pregnancy to provide babies protection against the virus, the government said.

Health officials said the vaccine could help reduce hospital pressure during the winter when RSV often spikes.

Eligible islanders will need to book an appointment with their doctor to receive the vaccine from Monday onwards.