THE Australian Government yesterday announced that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations will now be covered under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for Australians aged 75 and older, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and older (PD breaking news 19 Apr).
From 15 May, over 2 million older adults will be eligible to access the Arexvy RSV vaccine through participating pharmacies, GPs, and community and Aboriginal health services at no cost.
RSV is a common and contagious virus which usually causes mild symptoms similar to colds or the flu, but can lead to serious health complications in older adults and young babies.
Pregnant women are already covered for RSV vaccination under the NIP to provide protection for the baby.
Outside these groups, Arexvy is indicated for all adults aged 60 and over and adults aged 50-59 who are at increased risk of RSV disease, and they can access the vaccine privately at a cost of around $300.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia welcomed the announcement, with vice president Simon Blacker saying the decision is "a significant step in protecting those most at risk from a virus that can cause serious illness, hospitalisation and death".
"This reform will save lives and help keep older Australians well through winter," he added.
Dr Alan Paul, executive country medical director of GSK Australia, the manufacturer of Arexvy, said the initiative is "a significant milestone in the prevention of RSV disease in older adults".
"This decision reflects the growing recognition of RSV as a serious health concern among ageing populations," he continued.
"We are proud to make this vaccine available to older adults and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and we remain committed to supporting healthcare professionals in protecting these adults from severe outcomes associated with this respiratory infection." KB
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