NHS confirms programme expansion
10:47, 08 Jul 2026Updated 11:39, 08 Jul 2026
NHS confirms rule change for patients over age 65 from September 1
The NHS has confirmed a rule change for patients over age 65 from September 1. The NHS has confirmed the expansion of the eligibility criteria of the older adults respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programme from 1 September 2026.
Since September 2024, RSV vaccination has been routinely available to older adults as they turn 75 years of age, with an initial catch up also offered to adults who were aged 75 to 79 years on 1 September 2024.
The programme was expanded on 1 April 2026 to also include all adults aged 80 years and over and all residents in care homes for older adults, who had not already received a dose through the initial programme.
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From 1 September 2026, the eligibility criteria will be expanded further to include adults aged 65 to 74 years in certain clinical at risk groups.
Highlighting the change, Caroline Temmink, Director of Vaccination, NHS England and Dr Mary Ramsay CBE, Director of Public Health Programmes (including immunisation), UK Health Security Agency, have shared details on the NHS England website.
The pair 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.
“RSV vaccines can be administered at any time and offers of vaccination should continue throughout the year. RSV vaccination should not be routinely scheduled with influenza vaccination but 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.
“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, and commissioned community pharmacies will be invited by regions to enter a contract variation.”