Free RSV vaccines roll out for older Australians

RSV vaccinations will be free for older Australians from next month, with the federal government adding the protection to the national immunisation program ahead of winter.

From 15 May, people aged 75 and over will be eligible, along with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over.

The federal government has committed $445 million to fund access to the vaccine Arexvy, which would otherwise cost about $300.

Respiratory syncytial virus is a common but potentially serious illness that can lead to hospitalisation, intensive care and death, particularly among older adults and those living in aged care.

Although often linked to infants, RSV accounts for significant illness and hospitalisations among older Australians each year.

Federal health minister Mark Butler said vaccination remained the most effective way to reduce the impact of seasonal illness.

“I encourage eligible Australians to protect themselves and their community this winter by getting vaccinated against RSV,” he said.

“Aged care residents and older First Nations people are particularly vulnerable to this common respiratory illness.”

Eligible Australians will be able to receive the vaccine through GPs, pharmacies, immunisation clinics and Aboriginal health services.

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) welcomed the move.

“RSV can cause serious illness in older people, leading to hospitalisation, complications and, in some cases, death,” RACGP president Dr Michael Wright said.

“This decision will save lives, reduce pressure on hospitals and improve protection for those most at risk.”

Free influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are also available under the national immunisation program for those most at risk, including young children, pregnant women, people with underlying medical conditions, First Nations people and older Australians.

“Booking yourself and your family in for a flu vaccine each year is the safest and most effective way to protect yourselves and others against influenza,” Butler said.

“No two influenza seasons are the same and the flu can spread all year round, so it’s never too late to get vaccinated.”