RSV vaccine

[Loubprv]

Morning all,Just wondered if anyone under the age of 75 has managed to get the RSV vaccine

My haematologist has written to my GP but still not forthcoming . ..

I m 70. Had pv for 16 years, am now on 20mgs Ruxolitinib daily which I was told lowers my immunity significantly.

Feel extremely well, however in the last two years I have had bronchitis and pneumonia both of which came along with very hefty doses of antibiotics, and wiped out 2/3 months and 4 months of my life.

I m not eager to repeat the experience and would really appreciate your views.

Thanks so much

Louise xx

[hunter5582]

I had no problem at all getting the RSV vaccine at age 68 in my healthcare system (Medicare + private insurance). Older adults with weakened immune systems are a specific target for the use of the RSV vaccine. Given your history of respiratory infections and use of ruxolitinib, you should qualify for the RSV vaccine even though you are not yet age 75. Suggest that you push the issue with the GP if that doc in unwilling to follow the hematologists' recommendation. File a formal appeal if needed.

Wishing you success moving forward.

[william-Indo in reply to hunter5582]

60 years or older are good to take RSV, according to my doc

[Janbu]

Originally NICE did not recommend it for the immunosuppressed , as trials had shown no particular efficacy in this group but since September 2024 you can now get it… if your GP has seen the latest updates.

[Loubprv Volunteer in reply to Janbu]

Thanks so much.

[Sprat19]

I am assuming you are in the Uk. Here is a link to the appropriate chapter in the Green Book. Our bible for vaccines in UK

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The national programme for this year is only for pregnant women over 28 weeks and older adults age 75-79 on 1/9/2024. GP’s are supplied with this vaccine free of charge for the programme.

If they need to give it outside this programme they have to buy the vaccine in and claim the money back from the prescription pricing authority and do what is called a PSD . A patient specific direction.

There are also some private vaccine clinics offering it for a fee

[Loubprv Volunteer]

Thank you so much. Excellent info

[Minify]

I’m 73 and got the RSV vaccine - my doctor wrote the order. I decided to get it after one of my sisters contracted RSV and reported that it was the worse sickness she ever had. She had to go to the ER twice. It sounds like a terrible virus.

[lizzziep]

I didn’t know you could get it under 75 on the nhs, when I asked GP about it I was told definitely not until you’re 75! I’m nearly 72, I’ll ask again.

[Loubprv Volunteer]

We obviously have to be pushy Sue, thanks for your response

[Pv1955]

69 years old, in the US, and I had the RSV vaccine at my local pharmacy without issue, three weeks ago - 100% paid by Medicare. I combined the RSV with my first shingles shot. I had expected to feel *horrible* after, but other than a very sore arm for a few days, it wasn’t too bad.

[Loubprv Volunteer in reply to Pv1955]

Thanks. It's rather different in the UK as we have the jolly old NHS! Mostly a blessing but occasionally - hmmmmm.The NHS is struggling at the moment

[Bobadog]

hi Louise

I’m 64,PV,Jak 2,taking Rux (5mg once daily which keeps things stable )since 2023.

Live in UK

My haematologist wrote to GP for RSV but I still had to request ++ at our local GP surgery.

I had to push again for the second dose as they lost the Haematologist’s letter!

I’m in favour of all the vaccines,Covid,Pneumonia,flu,RSV as I’m out and about singing in choirs/jazz bands ,where bugs are rife,especially in the winter.

It’s a personal issue depending on your own health and lifestyle.

All the very best,

Bobbie.

[Loubprv Volunteer in reply to Bobadog]

Thanks BobbieWe have 4 small grandchildren who always are harbouring something .....

[Bluetop]

I asked my haematologist if he recommended I take it and he said 'yes'. However, the GP refused to give it to me. I am 74 years. Fortunately chest infections is not something I have suffered from so I have not pushed it.

[Loubprv Volunteer]

Thanks so much. All seems a little odd I must admit

[Inca]

I had never heard of R S V until recently having a test for it as I had chest infection.I discovered then that here in France all children are vaccinated for it along with all the other vacs.I didn’t have it & I don’t think a vac was suggested. Maybe I am too ancient! Best to you Louise xxxxx Sally

[Loubprv Volunteer in reply to Inca]

Yup. You've been written off Sally.Available to the over 75's to 80's.

Tell them you're 75 and you'll be in!!

Are you ok?

Vast gales here.

I was hoping the 4 trees at the end of our garden ( not on our land) would come down and crash through the 20 year old conservatory roof, then we could have a new one

No such luck.

Gorgeous day today though, spring might have sprung, the grass might have gris, I wonder where the warmth is? 😀

All well here,

Love Louise xx

[AndyT]

My GP surgery refused me the RSV jab as I’m under 75, despite being immunocompromised, so I got it privately at Boots.

Cost was £245, which was a bit steep but it’s a one-off jab and if it stops me getting RSV I’m prepared to invest that!

[Loubprv Volunteer]

Thanks Andy, think I might have to do that x