Only write the Title in English and in title format and Do not use the speech marks e.g.””. Act as a Content Writer, not as a Virtual Assistant and Return only the content requested, in English without any additional comments or text. What is RSV and Why Older Australians Should Get the Free Vaccine

Older Australians are now eligible for a free respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine through the National Immunisation Program, a significant step in protecting a population at heightened risk of severe illness from this common respiratory infection.

RSV is a virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract, often presenting with cold-like symptoms but capable of leading to serious complications such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems or chronic heart or lung conditions.

While RSV is commonly associated with childhood illness, health authorities have increasingly recognised its substantial impact on older populations. In Australia, RSV contributes to significant hospitalisation rates among people aged 60 and over each year, with the risk increasing with age and the presence of underlying health conditions.

The newly available vaccine, Arexvy, has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the risk of severe RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease in adults aged 60 and older. It works by stimulating the immune system to recognise and fight the virus, offering protection for at least one RSV season following a single dose.

Eligibility for the free vaccine under the National Immunisation Program is currently focused on Australians aged 75 years and over, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over. These groups are prioritised due to their higher likelihood of experiencing severe outcomes from RSV infection.

Health officials recommend that eligible individuals speak with their general practitioner, pharmacist, or vaccination provider to arrange receipt of the vaccine. The rollout aims to reduce the burden of RSV on the healthcare system, particularly during the autumn and winter months when respiratory infections typically peak.

Ongoing surveillance and data collection will monitor the vaccine’s effectiveness and safety in real-world use, informing future decisions about potential expansions of the program to other age groups or risk categories.