Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Sponsored by Pfizer Limited. Pfizer has had no involvement in the editorial component of this educational material. Editorial and content decisions were made solely by the RCGP.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an RNA virus which causes respiratory infections; the most significant clinical effects are in infants and people who are elderly and have chronic medical conditions or immunosuppression. In this podcast, Professor Simon de Lusignan from the RCGP’s Research and Surveillance Centre discusses the new RSV vaccination programme, which offers a one-off vaccine to everyone at the age of 75, with an initial catch-up programme between the ages of 75 and 80. He also touches on monoclonal antibodies and antivirals, which are given in secondary care to children who are at high risk of serious complications if they contract RSV.

Reviewed: March 2026