Pregnant women over 28 weeks in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are now entitled to a new vaccine to safeguard their unborn children's lungs.

The large majority of children contract the virus within their first two years, yet RSV remains relatively unknown to the public.

Although typically causing minor cold-like symptoms, the virus can potentially provoke more serious conditions such as pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, which may result in hospitalization.

Starting from September 1, the vaccine became available to individuals over 75 years old.

This followed guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, which identified them as one of the groups at highest risk from RSV.

This week also saw the flu vaccine offered to pregnant women.

Studies have shown that the immunization is safe at any stage of pregnancy and can provide babies with a degree of protection, particularly useful during their first few vulnerable months.

From October 3, the COVID-19 vaccine will also be accessible to expectant mothers.

Further information regarding these vaccination programmes will be released upon their deployment. For additional details about vaccination during pregnancy, individuals can visit the NHS's official website.

Dr Charlotte Hutchings, a GP in Hampshire, said: "We know pregnancy can be quite overwhelming when you’re not only looking after yourself, but doing the best you can for your unborn baby.

"Often there is a lot of advice given and it can be confusing to know what to follow.

"In the UK we have a proud history of successful vaccination programmes, which over decades has seen once common diseases such as polio and diphtheria eradicated.

"This new RSV vaccine has been robustly tested and is proven to help newborn babies fight off the virus should they become ill with it in the first few years of their life.

"By giving the vaccine to a pregnant woman, the antibodies are passed on to their unborn child in the womb, so they are born with better immunity against RSV.

"I would encourage all eligible pregnant women to take up the offer of the vaccination, or to talk to your midwife if you have any questions or concerns."