NHS issues vaccine warning to parents as children could face hospitalisation

The NHS has warned parents over a RSV, common health condition that can cause a lung infection and makes it difficult for newborn babies to breathe - with 20,000 infants admitted to hospital each year

NHS bosses have sounded the alarm over a health condition that affects up to 90% of children before their second birthday - leading to around 20,000 little ones being admitted to hospital annually. Mums-to-be are now being urged to get vaccinated to shield their unborn children from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

An update from the NHS on X advises: "RSV can cause lung infections like bronchiolitis, making it difficult for newborn babies to breathe, and causes 20,000 infants to need hospital treatment each year. Talk to your GP or maternity service to schedule yours from 28 weeks of pregnancy."

A graphic shared in the post highlights: "9 in 10 infants will catch respiratory syncytial virus before the age of two. RSV vaccination when you're pregnant is the best way to protect your baby."

According to NHS advice, while most cases of RSV resolve on their own, the infection can be more severe in babies, particularly those younger than six months. It notes: "In babies, RSV is a common cause of a type of chest infection called bronchiolitis. This can cause breathing problems and may need to be treated in hospital."

RSV is also known to lead to pneumonia in infants and older adults. Vaccination is key in lowering the risk of RSV leading to serious conditions such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, reports Coventry Live.

RSV is transmitted through the coughs and sneezes of an infected person. To minimise your risk of contracting or spreading the virus, it's advised to regularly clean toys and surfaces, avoid touching your face with unclean hands, use disposable tissues and dispose of them immediately after use.

It's also recommended to keep newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with serious health conditions, away from anyone suffering from a cold or flu.

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