A groundbreaking study has revealed a major reduction in hospital admissions for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) following the rollout of Scotland’s new vaccination programme.
Public Health Scotland (PHS), in partnership with the University of Strathclyde, has published research showing a 62% drop in RSV-related hospitalisations among eligible older adults.
The study, featured in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, confirms that the vaccine is highly effective in protecting vulnerable groups from serious illness caused by RSV.
RSV is a common but highly infectious virus that targets the respiratory system and poses a significant risk to older adults and other high-risk groups.
Scotland introduced the RSV vaccination programme in August last year, with local health boards inviting adults aged 75-79 to come forward for their free dose ahead of winter.
By the end of November 2024, vaccine uptake had reached an impressive 68% among this age group, demonstrating strong public confidence in the programme.
This study provides the first clear evidence that the vaccination programme is reducing hospitalisations, reinforcing the importance of ensuring high uptake among eligible individuals.
The RSV vaccine offers multi-year protection, and within just the first year of the programme, the data already highlights a significant reduction in severe illness among older adults.
Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Immunisation and Vaccination at PHS, emphasised the impact of the findings, stating that the success of the programme showcases the power of vaccines in preventing serious health complications.
He highlighted that vaccinations have played a crucial role in global health over the last five decades and that the RSV vaccine is another step forward in safeguarding Scotland’s population.
Dr Ghebrehewet encouraged eligible individuals to come forward for their vaccine and noted that the RSV vaccine is also available during pregnancy, offering protection to newborns against the virus.
Neil Gray, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, hailed the study as further proof of the vital role vaccines play in keeping people out of hospital and preventing severe illness.
He pointed out that Scotland was the first nation in the UK to introduce the RSV vaccine, ensuring maximum protection ahead of winter for those most at risk.
Gray reiterated the serious threat RSV poses to older adults, newborns, and infants, with complications such as pneumonia posing life-threatening risks.
He praised the strong vaccine uptake and urged all eligible individuals, particularly pregnant women and older adults, to take up the offer when invited.
Scotland’s proactive approach to RSV vaccination is proving to be a game-changer in protecting the most vulnerable and reducing strain on hospitals.
With clear evidence of the vaccine’s effectiveness, experts are hopeful that continued uptake will further drive down severe cases and ensure better health outcomes for those at risk.
