A VACCINE take up campaign to protect people aged 75 years and older has been launched by NHS Somerset.

A vaccination could keep people out of hospital this winter - but 15,000 eligible elderly Somerset residents have not had it because it is so little-known.

It is targeted at a winter virus called Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which can be much more serious for the over-75s, and for anybody with a weaker immune system or long-term health condition.

The virus often starts like a simple cold, but can quickly lead to pneumonia and breathing problems, which can lead to hospital stays, especially in colder months.

On average every year in the UK about 9,000 over-75s become infected with RSV and have to be admitted to hospital.

NHS Somerset’s programme lead for neighbourhoods and vaccinations Mike Kelly said: “What many people do not realise is that the NHS now offers a free RSV vaccine that protects against this virus.

“It is a newer vaccination for older adults, which is why you may not have heard much about it yet.

“But it can make a real difference to staying well over the winter months.

“If you or a family member is 75 or over, please make time to get protected.

“A small jab now can help keep you, or your loved one out of hospital later.”

The RSV virus spreads easily through coughs and sneezes and can hit older lungs much harder than expected.

The vaccine helps the body fight it off before it becomes serious, and a single dose helps boost protection for at least two years.

It helps to:

• Prevent pneumonia

• Reduce the risk of hospital stays

• Support staying active and independent

The NHS is offering the RSV vaccine to people aged 75 to 79 years, those who turned 80 years old after September 1, 2024, and pregnant women from 28 weeks, as it also protects newborn babies during their first months of life.

In Somerset, nearly 15,000 over 75s who are eligible to have the RSV vaccine have not yet taken it up, which is nearly 30 per cent of over-80s and half of over-75s.

Those eligible should be invited by letter, text, or a telephone call from their GP to have their RSV vaccination.

If they have not heard from anybody, then people aged older than 75 years can contact their GP to book a vaccination.

NHS Somerset GP and deputy chief medical officer Dr Rob Weaver said: “RSV can be more serious in older adults than many people realise.

“Vaccination offers important protection against severe illness, including complications such as pneumonia.

“By reducing your risk of infection, it may also help protect those around you, including babies and young children, who can be particularly vulnerable to RSV.

“If you are aged 75 or over, I would strongly encourage you to take up the offer of vaccination this winter.”

NHS Somerset is responsible for commissioning health and care services for the county’s 580,000 residents.