British health authorities are preparing for a potential wave of respiratory syncytial virus infections after Australia experienced unprecedented case numbers during its winter season.
Medical officials have noted that viral patterns in Australia frequently serve as indicators for what England might face in subsequent months.
The respiratory illness has been climbing steadily across England since early 2025, according to NHS England representatives.
The health service has launched an urgent appeal for expectant mothers to receive immunisation against RSV to safeguard their newborns.
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|The respiratory illness has been climbing across England since 2025
The infection remains a primary factor in infant mortality and represents the leading reason for paediatric hospital admissions.
NHS England has highlighted that RSV presents significant dangers to both newborns and senior citizens, frequently resulting in severe respiratory complications requiring hospital treatment.
The infection poses particular threats to these vulnerable populations, with the potential to cause critical breathing problems.
Kate Brintworth, NHS England's chief midwifery officer, stated that while RSV "only causes mild, cold-like symptoms" in most adults, "for older adults and young children, it can lead to serious breathing problems that can end up in hospitalisation".
She pointed out that "getting vaccinated while pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from the moment they are born".
Brintworth urged mothers to take action immediately, noting that "now is the time for mums to act, to make sure their babies are protected ahead of their first few months this winter, when there tends to be more bugs circulating".
Expectant mothers become eligible for the vaccination from their 28th week of pregnancy, with appointments available at maternity units or local GP practices.
The virus typically manifests as common cold symptoms in healthy adults but can trigger bronchiolitis in infants, a serious chest infection affecting the smallest airways in the lungs.
Who is most at risk of infection?
RSV poses heightened dangers to babies and those over 75 years old.
Senior citizens between 75 and 79 years old will receive invitations for RSV immunisation within the coming weeks, NHS England has announced.
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|Women have been told that vaccination during pregnancy is the best way to protect their baby
Recent findings from the UK Health Security Agency demonstrate the vaccine's substantial protective benefits for both age groups.
The immunisation programme shows a 72 per cent reduction in infant hospitalisations when administered to pregnant women, according to UKHSA data released last week.
For elderly recipients, the vaccination proves 82 per cent effective at preventing RSV-related hospital admissions.
These efficacy rates underscore the importance of uptake amongst eligible groups as respiratory infections typically increase during winter months.