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UK Prepares for Potential RSV Surge After Australia's Record Cases
4 Aug
Summary
- Australia sees record number of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases
- NHS officials say Australian winter often predicts England's virus spread
- RSV cases steadily increasing in England since start of 2025
- Vaccine offered to pregnant women and adults aged 75-79 to protect babies
As of August 5th, 2025, health experts are warning the UK to brace for a potential surge in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, following a record number of infections in Australia over their recent winter season.
According to NHS officials, the Australian winter is often a reliable predictor of how viruses will spread in England. And with a significant spike in RSV cases observed in Australia, the UK is now seeing a steady increase in RSV infections since the start of 2025.
To combat the impending outbreak, the NHS is urging pregnant women to get the RSV vaccine, which can protect their newborn babies from the potentially serious virus. RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization and death among infants, and the main reason for hospital admissions for young children.
The chief midwifery officer for NHS England, Kate Brintworth, emphasized that while RSV only causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most adults, it can lead to serious breathing problems and hospitalizations for older adults and young children. She stressed that getting vaccinated during pregnancy is the best way for mothers to safeguard their babies ahead of the upcoming winter season, when more viruses tend to circulate.
In addition to pregnant women, the RSV vaccine is also being made available to adults aged 75-79, who are at high risk of severe illness from the virus. The NHS will begin inviting this age group to come forward for the jab in the next few weeks.
