Swinney welcomes vaccine to protect babies from serious lung disease

A maternal vaccination programme which could protect newborn babies from serious lung disease has been welcomed by Scotland’s First Minister.

John Swinney will highlight the importance of the vaccine, which will also be offered to the elderly, during a visit to Clydebank on Monday.

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of emergency lung admissions to hospitals in infants.

The common and highly infectious virus affects the breathing system and while it generally causes mild symptoms, it can also lead to severe illness in babies and the most vulnerable people.

Doses of the vaccine will be offered to women from 28 weeks into their pregnancies and to those aged 75, with a one-off catch-up also offered to those aged 75-79.

In a visit to a local clinic, the First Minister will witness some of the first jabs being administered in an effort to prevent hospital admissions each year.

In 2022-23, more than 1,500 infants were hospitalised with RSV, while more than 500 people aged 75 and over also received medical care.

Mr Swinney said: “I encourage pregnant women to take up their vaccination appointments to protect their babies against the leading cause of hospitalisation in infants during the first weeks and months of life.

“Ensuring a healthy childhood is every parent’s first priority, however, it is equally important that those aged 75-29 take up their offer of this vaccine.

“We have acted quickly with partners to introduce this vaccine in time to maximise the benefit to the more vulnerable ahead of winter. This programme will reduce the numbers seriously ill or hospitalised, helping to manage the significant winter pressures on our NHS.”

The Scottish Government has invested £4.2 million in the supply of the vaccine, with Scotland the first of the four UK nations to administer it.

The rollout will begin in September in England, Wales and Northern Ireland