RSV Vaccine

Posted on August 12th, 2024

Invites have been sent for those eligible for the RSV Vaccine. Our first RSV Clinic commenced in September and further clinics will continue through October. 

Information on the free RSV vaccine for people who:
• Turn 75 years of age on or after 1 September 2024
• Are already aged 75 to 79 years old on 1 September 2024

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an infectious disease of the airways and lungs. RSV infection often causes symptoms similar to a cold, including cough, sore throat, sneezing and runny or blocked nose. It can also make you become wheezy or short of breath and lead to pneumonia and other life-threatening conditions. There is no specific treatment, and most infections will get better by themselves. Every year thousands of older adults need hospital care for RSV, and some of them will die. RSV can be more severe in people with medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or a weakened immune system. RSV infection is common in young children but is most serious for small babies and for older people. 

How do you catch RSV?

RSV infections can occur all year round but cases peak every winter. RSV can spread through coughs and sneezes. You can help to prevent the spread of the virus by covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze (ideally with a tissue, or else into the bend of your elbow), and you can wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of picking up the virus. Even with these measures it can be difficult to avoid RSV infection. The best way to protect yourself is to have the vaccine.

How does the vaccine work?

Almost all older adults will have had several RSV infections during their life. A single dose of vaccine will help to boost protection as you reach an age group at highest risk of serious RSV infection. 

Do I need to have the vaccine every year?

No, a single dose is expected to give you good protection for a few years.

For further information about the RSV vaccine, click here or scan the QR code below.