Autumn respiratory health: preparing for the season ahead.

As autumn arrives, so too does the seasonal ‘influx’ of coughs, colds and other respiratory infections.

While we can't avoid every seasonal illness, we can prepare for the months ahead. Understanding your individual risks, keeping appropriate vaccinations up to date and knowing when to seek medical advice can all help you and your family navigate autumn and winter with greater confidence.

Not every winter virus is "just a cold"

Flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are among the respiratory infections we're likely to hear more about as we move towards winter. Although they can share symptoms with the common cold, they can sometimes cause more serious illness - particularly for people who are older, very young or living with certain long-term health conditions. That doesn't mean we need to worry unnecessarily about the approach of autumn. Instead, it's a good opportunity to think proactively about our respiratory health and the practical steps we can take to protect ourselves and those around us.

RSV: a virus worth knowing about

RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects the airways and lungs. For most people, it causes relatively mild, cold-like symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. For some people, however, RSV can be more serious and can lead to complications including pneumonia. Babies and older adults are among those who may be particularly vulnerable. That's why RSV vaccination has become an increasingly important part of the UK's approach to respiratory health.

The NHS RSV vaccination programme in England has expanded during 2026. From September, vaccination is available to people aged 75 and over, adults living in care homes for older people, and people aged 65–74 who have specified chronic respiratory diseases or are immunosuppressed because of disease or treatment. The respiratory eligibility includes conditions such as COPD, bronchiectasis and poorly controlled asthma, but does not include asthma that is well controlled. Pregnant women are also offered RSV vaccination from 28 weeks during each pregnancy to help protect their baby after birth.

RSV is only one part of the picture

Autumn is a useful time to check which vaccinations may be appropriate for you and your family and whether your vaccinations are up to date. Flu vaccination is particularly important as we approach winter. For the 2026–27 season in England, NHS flu vaccination for pregnant women and eligible children begins from September. The main adult programme begins from 1 October for people aged 65 and over and adults under 65 in specified clinical risk groups, alongside other eligible groups.

The timing of the adult programme is deliberate. Protection from flu vaccination can reduce over time, so vaccination is planned to provide protection closer to the period when flu is usually circulating most widely. Depending on your age, health, circumstances and vaccination history, there may be other vaccinations worth considering too.

If you're unsure which vaccinations may be appropriate for you, our GPs can review your vaccination history, health and individual risk factors with you. The Hove Practice offers a wide range of private adult and childhood vaccinations, including RSV vaccination, subject to clinical suitability and availability. Find out more on our Vaccinations and Immunisations page or contact our Reception Team who will be happy to help.

Looking after your respiratory health isn’t just about avoiding infections

If you live with asthma, COPD or another respiratory condition, autumn can also be a useful time to review how well your symptoms are controlled. Our GPs can review your current treatment and respiratory health, with lung-function testing such as spirometry available where clinically appropriate.

Everyday measures matter too. Regular handwashing can help reduce the spread of infection, while keeping active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and avoiding smoking all contribute to our wider health. It's also worth remembering that antibiotics don't work against viral infections such as colds and flu. If you're unsure about your symptoms or whether treatment is needed, speaking to a healthcare professional can help.

When should you seek medical advice?

Most seasonal respiratory infections get better with rest, fluids and time. But it's important to pay attention when something doesn't feel right. Seek medical advice if symptoms are getting worse rather than better, you're concerned about a baby or vulnerable family member, or an existing respiratory condition is becoming more difficult to manage.

Breathing difficulties can require urgent attention. If you or somebody else is struggling to breathe, develops blue, grey or unusually pale skin, lips or tongue, becomes suddenly confused or develops another potentially life-threatening symptom, call 999 or go to A&E. For urgent concerns that aren't life-threatening, NHS 111 can help you decide what to do next.

A little preparation goes a long way

You can't plan your way out of every winter cough or cold. But you can go into autumn knowing more about your own health, understanding which vaccinations may be appropriate and feeling confident about when to ask for help. At The Hove Practice, preventative healthcare is an important part of how we look after our patients. Whether you'd like to review your vaccination history, check how well an existing respiratory condition is being managed, or speak to a GP about new or persistent respiratory symptoms, we're here to provide clear, personalised advice. You can explore our Everyday Health services or book a Private GP appointment.

Clinical sources and further information

UK Health Security Agency — RSV vaccination of older adults: information for healthcare practitioners
Current guidance on RSV vaccination eligibility, clinical risk groups and the year-round programme in England, including the September 2026 expansion.
NICE — Suspected acute respiratory infection in over 16s: assessment at first presentation and initial management (NG237)
Evidence-based guidance on assessing respiratory infections, self-care, deterioration and when further assessment is needed
Asthma + Lung UK — How tO PREVENT FLU
Patient-friendly information on flu vaccination and other ways to reduce the risk of flu, including specific advice for people living with asthma and other lung conditions.

Clinical Review

Clinical information was checked against current UKHSA, NICE and other relevant UK clinical guidance and patient information. Guidance and vaccination eligibility can change; this article is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Clinically reviewed by: Dr simon glew . Originally published: 26 september 2026. Last clinically reviewed: 25 september 2026