The NHS has confirmed a significant expansion of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programme for older adults, effective from 1 September 2026. From this date, adults aged 65 to 74 years who fall into certain clinical at-risk groups will become eligible for the vaccine, marking the latest phase in a rolling programme that began in September 2024.
Background of the RSV vaccination programme
Since September 2024, the RSV vaccine has been routinely offered to older adults as they turn 75 years of age. An initial catch-up campaign was also implemented for adults aged 75 to 79 years as of 1 September 2024. The programme was further expanded on 1 April 2026 to include all adults aged 80 years and over, as well as all residents in care homes for older adults who had not already received a dose through the initial programme.
New eligibility from September 2026
From 1 September 2026, the eligibility criteria will be broadened again to include adults aged 65 to 74 years who are in specific clinical risk groups. Caroline Temmink, Director of Vaccination at NHS England, and Dr Mary Ramsay CBE, Director of Public Health Programmes (including immunisation) at the UK Health Security Agency, announced the change on the NHS England website. They confirmed: “The vaccine used in the programme will continue to be Abrysvo (Pfizer pre-F vaccine) on a one dose schedule. Adults who receive the vaccine from 1 September 2026 because they are aged 65 to 74 years old and in a clinical risk group should not be invited for a further dose of Abrysvo when they become 75 years old.”
Vaccination administration details
RSV vaccines can be administered at any time, and offers of vaccination should continue throughout the year. The NHS advises that RSV vaccination should not be routinely scheduled with influenza vaccination, but it can be co-administered with the COVID-19 vaccine. GP providers are expected to deliver a 100% offer to eligible groups, with call and recall delivered at the earliest opportunity.
Role of community pharmacies
Where community pharmacies have been commissioned to support the older adults RSV programme, an updated enhanced service specification will be issued ahead of 1 September. Commissioned community pharmacies will be invited by regions to enter a contract variation to reflect the expanded eligibility.
