RSV vaccine side effects and how to manage them

With the NHS kicking off its rollout of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), this adds to the list of jabs available to help us get through the winter, such as flu and COVID-19.

Pregnant women and older adults, including those turning 75 on or after 1 September, will be routinely vaccinated against RSV for the first time.

RSV is 'a leading cause of infant mortality around the world', according to NHS England, and a common cause of coughs and colds that can also lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, highly dangerous to older people and young children.

Worldwide research of pregnant women given the RSV vaccine shows it reduces the risk of severe lung infection in babies by around 70% in the first six months of life. But as with any vaccine, this life-saving jab might come with potential side effects to be aware of, most of which are mild and don't last long.

To help you prepare, here Kiran Jones, clinical pharmacist at Oxford Online Pharmacy, has shared what the side effects might be, and how to manage them.

The RSV vaccine

"RSV is a respiratory virus that can cause mild cold symptoms and can be more harmful to infants and older adults with more vulnerable immune systems," says Jones.

"Mild symptoms include a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, a fever, wheezing, and a decrease in appetite, while more severe symptoms include bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and long-term respiratory illness.

"The vaccine was first approved in 2023, designed for those over 60 who are most vulnerable to severe RSV illness and is administered in a single dose."

As part of the programme, pregnant women will be able to get the RSV vaccine at any point from 28 weeks into their pregnancy, alongside their maternity care. Adults aged 75 to 79 will be offered a one-off 'catch-up' to ensure they are protected.

If you're pregnant, you can have the RSV vaccine at the same time as other pregnancy vaccines, like for whooping cough and the flu, but it's best to have them as soon as they're offered. If you're 75-79, the RSV vaccine isn't usually given at the same appointment as your flu or COVID-19 vaccines, but this might vary depending on the situation and what the doctor or nurse thinks is best.

Common side effects

"Most immunisations can cause some side effects, which can affect everyone differently as some may experience symptoms more extremely than others," says Jones.

"Irritation around the injection site, which will most likely be the upper arm, is common after receiving an RSV vaccine. You may feel mild to moderate pain or tenderness, which should subside within a few days, and also experience swelling or redness," says Jones.

"Systemic side effects can include fever as the body’s immune system response is activated, fatigue, headaches and muscle pain.

"Some less common side effects can be an allergic reaction that may trigger hives, itching, swelling and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis."

Generally speaking, people can also faint after a vaccination.

How to manage side effects

"To minimise discomfort or feeling unwell after receiving the RSV vaccine, get enough rest and stay hydrated to help your body recover," Jones advises.

"Drink at least two litres of water and eat a balanced variety of foods, including protein, fruits and vegetables and wholegrains. If you feel nauseous after the jab, stick to more bland foods in smaller quantities like toast, plain rice and potatoes.

"Take over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen and Paracetamol to reduce pain, swelling or fever. Applying a cold compress to the injection site can also reduce any swelling.

"Monitor any side effects, as any lasting longer than two to three days should be highlighted to a medical professional, as it could be a sign of an allergic reaction."

You cannot have the RSV vaccine if you've had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine.

The person doing the RSV vaccination will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and will treat them immediately. If you're worried about any side effects or symptoms after you leave your appointment, speak to a healthcare professional.

Watch: Mum whose son nearly died from RSV urges others to get vaccine rolled out this week

• Read more: Parents urged to ensure children vaccinated amid new school year measles concern (Yahoo Life UK, 3-min read)

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