RSV is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period, typically November to February. While the symptoms are mild for many, it accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations of children under 5 in the UK annually, and for 20 to 30 infant deaths.

It can also be severe in older adults, causing pneumonia and flare ups of existing lung disease and other long term conditions and leading to around 9,000 hospitalisations in those aged over 75 in the UK every year.

It may cause a cough or a cold, wheezing, shortness of breath, tiredness and fever, as well as bronchiolitis in infants, which can make it difficult to breathe and feed. Most cases are, however, not serious and clear up within two to three weeks.

RSV can spread through coughs and sneezes. People can help prevent the spread of the virus by covering their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze, ideally with a tissue, or the bend of their elbow, and by washing their hands with warm soapy water frequently to kill the germs.

All women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant are being offered a single dose of the RSV vaccine to help protect their newborn babies, and should speak to their maternity service or GP to arrange this. Meanwhile all adults aged 75 and over are also eligible and will be invited by their GP.

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “RSV is a common cause of coughs and colds. Infections usually get better by themselves but can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.

“The RSV vaccine is given all year round but it’s particularly important that people who are eligible for the jab make sure they are protected as we head into the winter months, when the virus is more common.”