Islanders aged 80 and over are not being offered a vaccination that protects against an infectious respiratory virus due to a lack of evidence and considerations about cost-effectiveness, according to the Public Health boss – even though the government advises that it is “most serious” for “older people”.

Following queries from Express after an elderly islander raised concerns about their ineligibility for the new RSV vaccine, Public Health Director Peter Bradley explained that his team followed guidance issued in the UK off the back of an independent advisory group.

Peter Bradley, director of Public Health Picture: ROB CURRIE
Pictured: Professor Peter Bradley, Director of Public Health, said that Jersey follows JCVI advice.

“The RSV vaccine programme is based on recommendations from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), an expert group,” Professor Bradley said.

“In June 2023, the JCVI looked at the research on how well the vaccines worked as well as their cost-effectiveness and from this research, recommended to start an initial programme to vaccinate people aged from 75 years up to 80 years of age, and then for a routine programme for those turning 75 years of age in subsequent years. 

“However, the JCVI also advised that there was not enough evidence to recommend vaccines for those aged over 80 years.

“The JCVI will continue to monitor new data and research which may update lead to updated advice with and recommendations.”

RSV is a virus that affects the lungs and airways, causing symptoms similar to a cold, such as cough, sore throat, and congestion. In older adults, it can lead to severe respiratory illness, including pneumonia. 

Pictured: RSV can cause lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis. The government has said vaccination locally can prevent nearly 100 hospitalisations each year and relieve pressure on the hospital during the winter, which is when RSV often peaks.

The Government of Jersey’s own online guidance reads: “RSV is a leading cause in respiratory illness worldwide and in the UK accounts for around 40,000 hospitalisations and between 20 and 30 infant deaths every year.

“Locally, vaccination can prevent nearly 100 hospitalisations annually and relieve pressure on the hospital during the winter when RSV often spikes.

“RSV is common in young children but is most serious for small babies and for older people.”

The vaccine is being offered as a single injection to those eligible, including those aged 75 to 79 and pregnant women.

Residents eligible for the vaccine are advised to contact their GP to book an appointment.

Further details can be found here.