As we head into the cooler months, protecting older adults from preventable respiratory illness is more important than ever. From 15 May 2026, a free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine is available for eligible older Australians through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) — a significant step forward in keeping our community healthy this winter.
What Is RSV?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common, highly contagious virus that infects the airways and lungs. While it usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms in healthy adults, RSV can lead to serious illness in older people — including pneumonia, bronchitis, hospitalisation, intensive care admission, and in some cases, death.
Symptoms of RSV include a runny nose, fever, coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing, earache, and sinus pain. RSV spreads through droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, and the virus can survive on surfaces for several hours.
Why Are Older Adults at Higher Risk?
Older Australians — particularly those aged 75 and over, those living in aged care, or those managing chronic conditions such as COPD, asthma, heart failure, or diabetes — face a greater risk of severe RSV disease. Immunity naturally weakens with age, making it harder to fight off respiratory infections. Older adults hospitalised with RSV tend to experience longer hospital stays and may face long-term health complications, increased need for care, and loss of independence.
In 2025, Australia recorded almost 180,000 cases of RSV nationally, with more than 40,000 of those in adults over 60. RSV infection is now a nationally notifiable disease, recognised alongside influenza and COVID-19 as a significant public health risk.
Who Is Eligible for the Free RSV Vaccine?
From 15 May 2026, the RSV vaccine Arexvy® is available free of charge through the National Immunisation Program for:
- Adults aged 75 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over
Without NIP listing, the RSV vaccine would typically cost around $300 — so this program removes a significant financial barrier to protection.
If you are aged 60 to 74, or have a medical condition that increases your risk of severe RSV disease, you may still choose to get vaccinated. The vaccine can be purchased privately through your GP or pharmacy, though it cannot be reimbursed through the NIP.
When to Get Vaccinated
RSV infections are most common during the cooler months of autumn and winter, typically between April and September. The RSV season usually peaks in June and July — often before the flu season peaks. It is best to get vaccinated before the start of the RSV season where possible, so now is an ideal time to book.
Currently, only one dose of the RSV vaccine is recommended for older adults, and protection lasts for at least two years. There is no need for an annual booster at this stage.
Can I Get the RSV Vaccine with Other Vaccines?
Yes. The RSV vaccine can safely be administered at the same visit as other recommended vaccines for older adults, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines. This means you can combine your winter vaccinations into a single appointment for convenience.
What Are the Side Effects?
Like most vaccines, you may experience minor side effects such as mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, along with tiredness or headaches. These usually resolve within a few days without treatment. Serious side effects, such as severe allergic reaction, are rare. The RSV vaccine should not be given to anyone who has had anaphylaxis after a previous dose.
Where to Get Vaccinated
Eligible Australians can receive the free RSV vaccine through a range of health services, including:
- General practices (including Cronulla Medical Practice)
- Local council immunisation clinics
- Community health centres
- Aboriginal health services
- Participating pharmacies
Speak with your GP at Cronulla Medical Practice about whether the RSV vaccine is right for you, and to make sure you're up to date with all recommended immunisations heading into winter. You can book online via HotDoc or call us on (02) 9544 4004.
A Stronger Shield for Winter
The addition of the free RSV vaccine to the National Immunisation Program complements the existing free flu and COVID-19 vaccination programs, giving older Australians the most comprehensive respiratory protection yet. Vaccination not only protects individuals but helps reduce the spread of illness across the broader community — supporting healthier families, carers, and aged care residences.
For more information, visit the Australian Government's RSV vaccine page at health.gov.au or the Healthdirect RSV information page at healthdirect.gov.au.