People across North Wales who are eligible for winter vaccinations are being reminded that the RSV vaccine offers separate protection from flu and Covid jabs.

The respiratory syncytial virus is common during the winter months and usually causes mild symptoms, but it can lead to serious illness in babies, older people and those with weakened immune systems.

In Wales, RSV is linked to thousands of GP appointments and hospital admissions among people aged over 75 each year.

The importance of vaccination has been highlighted by Joanne, a health visitor, whose baby daughter spent three weeks in hospital after contracting the virus.

Her daughter was admitted on Christmas Eve with breathing difficulties and needed a CPAP machine to help her breathe.

Joanne said the experience was terrifying and that her daughter's illness continued to affect family life long after she returned home.

She is urging people who are offered the vaccine to take up the opportunity, saying RSV can be much more serious than a common cold.

The vaccine is routinely offered throughout the year to adults aged 75 and over, as well as pregnant women to help protect their babies during the first months of life. Older adults generally need just one dose, while the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy.

Since September, the programme has also been extended to adults aged 65 to 74 who are at higher risk, including some people with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.

Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health Nerys Evans says the flu, Covid and RSV vaccines protect against different viruses and is encouraging everyone eligible to make sure they are protected ahead of winter.