Older people across Ayrshire are being encouraged to keep an eye on their doormats for vaccine invitation letters.

Later this summer, Public Health Scotland (PHS) will begin its Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination programme to protect against serious, potentially hospitalising illnesses.

RSV is a common, highly infectious respiratory virus.

While most people recover after two to three weeks, others, especially the elderly and infants, risk developing severe diseases like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Last year, Scotland reported more than 1,000 RSV cases amongst adults aged 75 and over, with more than 535 hospital admissions.

The virus is also the prime cause of emergency respiratory hospital visits for infants under the age of one.

Those turning 75 years old between August 1 and July 31, 2025 will be the first to receive invitations under this new programme.

Any individual aged 75 to 79 years old on the earlier date will also be offered the vaccine under the 'catch up' programme.

RSV is the prime cause of emergency respiratory hospital visits for infants under the age of one, while elderly residents are also at particular risk from complications.RSV is the prime cause of emergency respiratory hospital visits for infants under the age of one, while elderly residents are also at particular risk from complications. (Image: Newsquest)

Starting from August, pregnant women will also be offered the vaccine to protect their newborns from serious RSV-related illnesses.

Dr Nicholas Phin, director of public health science at PHS, said: "Vaccinations have played a major role in protecting the health of people across the globe over the last 50 years.

"RSV can be very serious for those who are more vulnerable, such as older people.

"That’s why we’re asking all those who are eligible for the RSV vaccine to look out for their letter and take up the offer."

The chief midwifery officer of Scotland, Justine Craig, said: "I encourage pregnant women to take up appointments for RSV vaccination, and discuss with their midwife, to protect their babies from the virus during the first weeks and months of life."

Dr Mike Coates, a GP in Lanarkshire, said: "If you are eligible, getting vaccinated is the best and simplest thing you can do to protect yourself or your newborn baby from RSV and any potentially serious illness it can bring.

"For older adults who will receive a letter in the post, I would strongly encourage you to read the information and attend the appointment to get your RSV vaccine."