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The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has welcomed the Federal Government\u2019s announcement that the RSV vaccine (Arexvy) will be made available to eligible Australians through the National Immunisation Program (NIP).<\/p>\n
From 2026, the vaccine will be available free of charge to Australians aged 75 years and over, and to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians aged 60 years and over, helping protect those at highest risk of severe illness from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).<\/p>\n
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the decision was an important step in reducing preventable hospitalisations and improving health outcomes for older Australians.<\/p>\n
\u201cRSV can cause serious illness in older people, leading to hospitalisation, complications and, in some cases, death,\u201d Dr Wright said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have been advocating for access to the vaccine to be expanded and this decision will save lives, reduce pressure on hospitals, and improve protection for those most at risk.\u201d<\/p>\n
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can be particularly dangerous for older adults and people with underlying health conditions. While often associated with infants, RSV accounts for significant illness and hospital admissions among older Australians each year.<\/p>\n
Dr Wright said the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians aged 60 and over recognises the higher burden of respiratory disease experienced by these communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a welcome and targeted decision that acknowledges the importance of equity in preventive healthcare,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cEnsuring vaccines are accessible to those who need them most is essential to closing health gaps.\u201d<\/p>\n
The RACGP said general practice will play a central role in delivering the RSV vaccine, alongside existing immunisation programs such as influenza and COVID\u201119.<\/p>\n
\u201cGPs are trusted by patients to provide tailored advice about vaccination and timing, particularly for older people with complex medical needs,\u201d Dr Wright said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIncluding the RSV vaccine on the NIP supports continuity of care and ensures vaccination is delivered safely and effectively.\u201d<\/p>\n
The RACGP welcomed the Government\u2019s continued investment in preventive health and encouraged eligible Australians to speak with their GP about RSV vaccination as part of their broader immunisation and health plan.<\/p>\n
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~ENDS<\/p>\n
About us: <\/p>\n
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is the peak representative organisation for general practice, the backbone of Australia\u2019s health system. We set the standards for general practice, facilitate lifelong learning for GPs, connect the general practice community, and advocate for better health and wellbeing for all Australians.<\/p>\n
Visit www.racgp.org.au<\/a>. To unsubscribe from RACGP media releases, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Contact details: <\/p>\n ![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ID-4345-Media-release-footer-9-860x189.png\")
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