Free RSV vaccination program for older adults in Australia

On 15 May, the Australian Government commenced free respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination for people aged 75 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over. Within two months, more than 700,000 older adults received the vaccine. Although RSV often presents like a common cold, it can have devastating consequences for older adults, increasing the risk of hospital admission, pneumonia, and exacerbating existing chronic conditions.

Clinical trials have shown a 94% reduction in severe RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease among older adults, with real-world evidence demonstrating an 83% reduction in hospital admissions. However, an Immunisation Foundation of Australia (IFA) survey of more than 1,000 eligible adults revealed ongoing knowledge gaps. Among those undecided, 76% had either never heard of RSV or knew little about it, and 57% did not know a free vaccine was available.

General practitioners play a key role in supporting RSV vaccination uptake, with 82% of protected older adults receiving their vaccine in general practice. Data from the Australian Immunisation Register and the AusVaxSafety database provide safety updates. Co-administration of the RSV and influenza vaccines is recommended for convenience, although the Immunisation Handbook notes the possibility of more reported reactions.