What is RSV? And why should older Australians have this free vaccine?

Free RSV vaccinations for older Australians

The Federal Government has announced free R-S-V vaccinations for older Australians, in a push to better protect those most at risk from the potentially deadly respiratory virus. The $445 million dollar investment means Australians aged 75 and over - and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over - will be able to access the immunisation for free from mid May, saving them as much as $300 dollars per vaccination.

What is RSV? And why should older Australians have this free vaccine?

manassanant pamai/Getty ImagesWinter respiratory illnesses are often thought of as a nuisance that can keep you in bed and away from work or school for a few days. But if you’re susceptible to severe infection, they can land you in hospital. Most people are familiar with influenza and COVID vaccines, which are recommended for people at higher risk of severe infection. But these don’t protect against another virus, respiratory syncytial virus, or…

Older Australians to receive free RSV vaccine from May - Aged Care Insite

Older Australians will soon have free access to a Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine, with the Albanese government announcing a major investment to protect those most at risk of severe illness from the common but potentially deadly virus. From 15 May, Australians aged 75 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over, will be eligible for a free RSV vaccine through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). The …