Free RSV vaccinations for older adults – and other winter virus updates

As part of an expansion of the National Immunisation Program the Arexvy vaccine will be made available to adults aged 75 years and over, and to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians aged 60 years and over.

The RACGP welcomed the news as an important step in reducing preventable hospitalisations.

“RSV causes serious illness, particularly in older people, leading to severe respiratory infections, hospitalisation, and, in some cases, death,” President Dr Michael Wright said.  

“We have been advocating for access to the vaccine to be expanded and this smart decision will save lives, reduce pressure on hospitals, and improve protection for those most at risk.” 

Dr Wright added that GPs will play a central role in delivering the vaccine: “GPs are trusted by patients to provide tailored advice about vaccination and timing, particularly for older people with complex medical needs."

It follows the WA government funding the introduction of free RSV vaccinations for people aged 65 and over in residential care homes from mid-May, as part of a $14 million investment in vaccines promised in its winter strategy.

WA reported 12,804 RSV cases in 2025, with around one third occurring in people over 65 – many requiring hospital admission.

The Department of Health estimates 15,000 aged care residents will be vaccinated this year.

Reminder of whooping cough risk for older adults

Warnings have also been issued about other respiratory viruses impacting elderly populations ahead of the winter peak.

Australia’s immunisation advisory body has issued a reminder of the risks of whooping cough in older adults amid “suboptimal” vaccination rates.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation’s (ATAGI) latest bulletin to GPs and immunisation providers has warned pertussis is not just a childhood illness.

It warned cases of whooping cough had been increasing in recent years as vaccination rates remained below optimal levels.

Healthcare workers and adults aged over 65 are recommended to receive a dTpa – the combined tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis vaccine – jab every 10 years.

But in 2024 vaccine coverage for adults aged 50-64 and over 65 years was “suboptimal for both tetanus and diphtheria vaccination and pertussis vaccination”.

Less than 37% for both cohorts had received tetanus and diphtheria vaccinations and less than 25% had received a whooping cough vaccination.

“Older adults and people with chronic illnesses have higher morbidity and mortality compared to healthy adults,’ the ATAGI warned.

So far this year 403 cases of whooping cough have been recorded in WA across all age groups.

Last year the state recorded a five year high of 2,298 cases of whooping cough – more than 2021-2024 cases combined.

It prompted warnings from health advocacy and immunisation groups about complacency around vaccines.

Flu vaccinations

In the same bulletin, the ATAGI reminded GPs of the importance of flu vaccinations. It noted studies indicated people immunised with influenza vaccine were about 53% less likely to visit a GP or be hospitalised with influenza compared to the unvaccinated.

In the lead up to winter the state government has bolstered free immunisation programs for the flu and RSV, with the needle-free FluMist spray offered for children aged two to 11.

FluMist became available for children in the state this month, with 130,000 doses available.

Eligible children can access FluMist through community health clinics, GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, and pharmacies.

RACGP WA Chair Dr Ramya Raman said the program would make influenza vaccination easier and less stressful for many children and families.

“GPs are trusted by families to provide evidence-based advice and vaccinations tailored to each child’s needs. This program supports that role and removes a significant barrier to vaccination for many children,” she said.