Boots launches private RSV vaccination service

Boots has launched a private respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination service priced at £245.

The chain claims it has become the ‘first multiple pharmacy’ to launch such a service.

It comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned RSV was circulating above baseline levels, with particularly pronounced increases in those under five years old.

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And it urged people to get vaccinated against this ‘winter threat’.

The Boots RSV vaccination service is suitable for those who are aged 60 years and over and for pregnant women aged 18 years and above, who are between week 28 and week 36 of pregnancy.

In September, the NHS began offering a free RSV vaccination for patients aged between 75 to 79 and to women who are over 28 weeks pregnant.

‘A number’ of community pharmacies in England are providing the RSV vaccine to older adults on the NHS.

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Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist for Boots UK, said: ‘RSV can be unpleasant and potentially life-threatening for certain people.

‘The private vaccination service is a great option for those who aren’t eligible on the NHS, but still want to protect themselves.

‘In general, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself and help reduce the spread of the virus to others this winter.’

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Boots added that, in line with government guidelines, the vaccination is ‘expected to provide good protection for at least two years and is expected to last longer’.

The service at boots includes a single dose vaccination and will cost £245.