- Is the adult RSV vaccine funded for anyone in Australia?
No, it is currently only available for private purchase.
- Can I have my RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
Yes, the adult RSV vaccine can be given with other vaccines such as COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal and shingles. Side effects such as fatigue and muscle aches may be worse when more vaccines are given together but it is considered safe and effective.
- What side effects does the adult RSV vaccine cause?
Common side effects reported include pain/redness at the site of injection, fatigue, headaches and muscle pains. They were generally reported as mild to moderate and lasted only a few days. Other side effects were very rare and not statistically significant but will continue to be monitored.
- If I have had an RSV infection, can I/should I have the vaccine?
Protection after natural infection is not long-lasting and re-infection is common, so having the RSV vaccine is recommended (in the relevant cohort) and likely to be beneficial.
- How effective is the vaccine in preventing severe infection?
In a large clinical trial, adults aged 60+ who received the adult RSV vaccine were 83% less likely to have RSV associated lower respiratory tract infection, and 94% less likely to have a severe RSV -associated lower respiratory tract infection through a single RSV season at 10 months follow-up. Across 2 seasons, up to 22 months post vaccination, there was a vaccine effectiveness of 67%. At this stage, boosters are not recommended but data will help inform this decision going forward.
- I am aged 60-74 and have no risk factors for severe infection, but I would like to have this vaccine. Is that, ok?
Yes, if you are aged >60, you can have the vaccine. The benefit to having this may not be as large as those who do have risk factors or who are aged 75+, but it is still shown to reduce risks of infection and severe infection.
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