Premature babies to get winter RSV protection in new NHS rollout
New one-dose immunisation to protect thousands of UK babies born before 32 weeks
From this September, thousands of premature babies across the UK will be offered a new one-dose jab to protect them from a dangerous winter virus known to cause serious breathing problems and even death.
The drug, called nirsevimab, will be made available on the NHS to 9,000 babies and young children at higher risk from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that’s usually harmless but can be dangerous for preterm babies.
“It will offer a long-lasting defence, helping to avoid unnecessary hospitalisations and serious illness, giving babies the best possible start in life and shielding them from harm,” said Dr Claire Fuller, NHS England’s co-national medical director.
Why RSV is a risk for premature babies
RSV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in most children, but in babies born before 32 weeks – who haven’t had the chance to build up immunity in the womb – the virus can lead to serious lung infections like pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
According to NHS England, premature babies are:
- 3x more likely to be hospitalised with RSV
- 10x more likely to need intensive care compared with full-term babies
Each year, RSV leads to around 30,000 UK children under five being admitted to hospital. Sadly, around 30 of them do not survive.
What the new RSV jab offers
The nirsevimab jab gives immediate protection and is more than 80% effective at preventing severe RSV infections. Unlike a typical vaccine, which takes time to build immunity, nirsevimab delivers antibodies directly – offering protection from the moment it’s given.
The injection will be offered through neonatal clinics from late September, timed to give babies protection before the peak winter season.
It’s not just premature babies who may benefit. The jab will also be made available to infants with serious heart or lung conditions, or those with weakened immune systems – with individual medical teams advising families on whether their child is eligible.
What about RSV protection for other babies?
Last year, a separate RSV vaccine called abrysvo was introduced for pregnant women (from 28 weeks) and adults aged 75–79. This jab works by boosting the mother’s immune system and passing protection to the baby in the womb.
But because babies born before 32 weeks may not receive enough protection before birth, they are instead being offered nirsevimab, which bypasses the need to develop immunity and protects them directly.
Symptoms of RSV to look out for
Mild RSV symptoms can resemble a cold, including:
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough and sneezing
- Tiredness
- High temperature
- In more serious cases – especially in babies – RSV can cause:
Fast or laboured breathing
- Poor feeding or loss of appetite
- Irritability
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Long gaps between breaths
If you're worried your baby has symptoms of RSV and is struggling to breathe or feed, it’s important to seek medical attention quickly.
What parents need to know
If your baby was born before 32 weeks, or has an existing health condition, your medical team will contact you if your child is eligible for the jab. The immunisation will be delivered via your local neonatal clinic, and only one dose is needed for six months’ protection.
For busy, sleep-deprived parents, this jab offers real peace of mind ahead of winter bugs.
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Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.