RSV warning: UK braces for virus surge after Australia cases

Pregnant women have been urged to take up the offer of an RSV jab (PA) Andrew Matthews

Health experts have warned the UK should brace for a surge in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) following record case numbers in Australia. The virus poses particular danger to newborns and elderly people, with officials noting cases have been steadily increasing in England since the start of 2025.

NHS officials said the Australian winter often serves as a reliable predictor of how viruses will spread in England. Following the significant surge in RSV cases across Australia, health authorities are urging immediate action to protect vulnerable groups.

Vaccine urged for pregnant women

NHS England has called on pregnant women to get vaccinated against RSV to protect their newborn babies. The health service said RSV is a leading cause of death among babies and the main cause of hospital admissions for children.

Kate Brintworth, chief midwifery officer for NHS England, said: "While for most adults RSV only causes mild, cold-like symptoms, for older adults and young children it can lead to serious breathing problems that can end up in hospitalisation. Getting vaccinated while pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from the moment they are born, and now is the time for mums to act, to make sure their babies are protected ahead of their first few months this winter, when there tends to be more bugs circulating."

Vaccination programme details

Pregnant women can receive the jab from 28 weeks of pregnancy onwards through their maternity services or GP surgery. Older adults aged 75 to 79 are also eligible for the vaccination, with NHS England set to start inviting people to come forward in the next few weeks.

RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds but poses high risks for certain groups. Babies and adults over 75 face the greatest danger of serious illness from the virus.

Serious complications in babies

In babies, RSV commonly causes bronchiolitis, a type of chest infection that can require hospital treatment. The virus represents a significant threat to infant health during their most vulnerable early months.

Last week, the UK Health Security Agency published data demonstrating the vaccine's effectiveness. The jab for pregnant women can prevent 72 per cent of hospital admissions for their babies, according to the agency's findings.

The vaccine proves 82 per cent effective at preventing hospital admissions for RSV among older adults, UKHSA said. These figures underscore the importance of vaccination programmes as the UK prepares for a potential winter surge in cases.

(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.