As the new life-saving Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination programme, aimed at protecting newborns and older adults launches in Northern Ireland, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging those eligible to get vaccinated when invited.
RSV is a common and highly infectious respiratory virus that affects the breathing system, particularly in young children and older adults. RSV infections often lead to mild cold-like symptoms, but in some cases, especially in infants and individuals with compromised immune systems, it can cause severe respiratory issues and hospitalisation.
From the 1 September 2024 to help protect newborns and infants, pregnant women are being offered the vaccine from 28 weeks into their pregnancy. Adults aged from 75 to 79 years of age will also be offered the RSV vaccination.
RSV vaccine clinics will run at the following sites:
Monday 23 September 2024
Downe Hospital, Maternity Hub 9.30am – 12.00noon
Tuesday 24 September 2024
Ards Maternity Hub 9.00am -12.00noon
Ulster Hospital Maternity Unit 1.00pm – 4.30pm
Lagan Valley Hospital, Maternity Unit 9.00am – 12.00noon
Lagan Valley Hospital, Maternity Unit 1.00pm-4.15pm
Wednesday 25 September 2024
Ulster Hospital Maternity Unit 9.00am –12.15pm
Ulster Hospital Maternity Unit 1.00pm-4.15pm
Thursday 26 September 2024
Downe Hospital, Maternity Hub 9.30am-12.00noon
Ulster Hospital Maternity Unit 9.00am – 12.15pm
Ulster Hospital Maternity Unit 1.00pm-4.15pm.