Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory tract infections. RSV infection is more common in children but is most serious for small babies and older adults. Most people have had RSV as a child, but a past infection may not prevent you from getting RSV again.
For most people, RSV causes a mild illness, such as a cough or cold, and usually gets better on its own. However, a small number of older adults are at risk of becoming very unwell, especially if they have other health problems, such as heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system.
Each year, up to 1000 people aged over 75 need hospital care due to RSV, and some of these people may die.
RSV infections can occur all year round, but cases rise in autumn and winter.
You can help protect yourself against serious illness from RSV by having the RSV vaccination when it is offered to you.