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The Covid-19 spring booster vaccine is being offered to people aged 75 and older in Wales, as well as residents in care homes for older adults.

Meanwhile, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine – introduced in 2024 for those aged between 75 and 79 – is now being offered to those aged 80 and above, as well as care home residents.

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, which covers Gwent, is sending out invitation letters to those eligible for the vaccines.

Figures from Public Health Wales found that the RSV vaccine lowers the risk of hospitalisation from the virus by 75%.

Dr Christopher Johnson, head of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme at Public Health Wales, said: “More than 100,000 people aged 75 to 79 have already taken up the offer of RSV vaccination.  

“The expansion of the vaccination programme to people aged 80 and over gives us an opportunity to prevent even more RSV-linked hospital stays. 

“This will benefit individuals, but it will also help ease pressure on GPs and hospitals in Wales.”

Dr Johnson added: “We know that vaccination is the best way to protect ourselves and others against illnesses like RSV and Covid-19. I would encourage everyone who is invited to take up the offer of vaccination this spring.”

Visit Public Health Wales’ website for more information on vaccinations.