We are now offering the Arexvy RSV Vaccine here at Linbury Doctors. RSV is a common respiratory virus that causes mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy adults and children. However, it can be very serious for infants and older adults with weakened immune systems.
Please contact us on 0333 050 7338 to find out more about this vaccine and whether it’s right for you. If you’re a member of Linbury, please contact your GP directly to discuss.
The cost of the RSV vaccine is £350. One dose will cover you for two years.
What is RSV?
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is highly contagious and can spread through droplets from coughs and sneezes, as well as by touching infected surfaces. This can make it difficult to prevent the spread of the virus, especially in places where large groups of people gather.
How does the RSV Vaccine Work?
The RSV vaccine works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that will protect against the virus. It is recommended for infants and older adults who are at high risk for severe complications from RSV infection, such as:
- Chronic lung or heart disease (e.g. asthma, COPD, emphysema, heart failure or poor heart function)
- Cancer treatments
- Organ transplants
- Immunocompromised
One dose of the RSV vaccine will cover you for two years.
Why are we seeing an increase in RSV cases now?
There are a few possible reasons for this:
- Delayed Immunity: With the COVID-19 pandemic, many children may have missed out on early exposure to viruses like RSV, leading to a delay in developing immunity. As restrictions are lifted and more people start socialising again, they may be exposed to these viruses for the first time and experience more severe symptoms.
- Weakened Immune Systems: Older adults typically have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to viruses like RSV. With the pandemic and lockdowns, many may have been isolated and not exposed to common illnesses, leading to a decrease in their immunity.
- Misdiagnosis: As RSV shares similar symptoms with COVID-19, there may have been cases that were initially diagnosed as COVID but turned out to be RSV upon further testing. With the focus on COVID, other respiratory illnesses may have gone undetected and untreated.
While the exact reason for the recent surge in RSV cases is still unclear, it’s important to take precautions to protect ourselves and others. Here are a few things you can do:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Keep your distance from others, especially if you or someone around you is ill.
At Linbury, we are committed to providing a comprehensive range of vaccinations and preventive measures for our patients. Our team is dedicated to keeping you healthy and protecting against preventable illnesses. Book an appointment with us today to discuss your healthcare needs and let us help you stay on top of your health. Don’t risk getting sick – protect yourself and those around you by getting vaccinated.
Not a member of Linbury? Call 0333 050 7338 or visit our membership page to find out more and discuss your options.
