How does RSV affect me?

• RSV is a common virus that, in most cases, causes mild cold-like symptoms.
• Older people are at higher risk of severe disease and more likely to get pneumonia (a chest infection) and need to go to hospital if they get RSV.
• RSV can worsen other conditions likes asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure.

How does the RSV vaccine help?

• The vaccine may not stop you from getting RSV BUT it will protect you from becoming very unwell.
• Getting the vaccine makes it less likely that you will get a chest infection or need to go to hospital.

When can I get the free RSV vaccine?

Anyone aged 75 years and older and Aboriginal people aged 60 years and older, can receive the RSV vaccine called Arexvy.

What are common side effects of the RSV vaccine?

• Most side effects are mild to moderate and last only a few days. These side effects include pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, feeling tired, headache and muscle pains.
• Paracetamol can help with this pain.
• A very small number adults aged 60 years and over could develop rare complications. More information is on the Australian Immunisation Handbook – RSV Chapter.

Can the RSV vaccine give me RSV?

No. The vaccine cannot give you RSV because there is no live virus in the vaccine.

Can I have the vaccine if I have had a recent RSV infection?

• Yes. If you have recovered from an RSV infection, you can have the RSV vaccine.
• Protection from RSV infection is not long-lasting and getting infected with RSV is common. Getting the RSV vaccine will provide more protection.

Can I have the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?

Yes. You can have the RSV vaccine at the same time as other vaccines such as the COVID-19 vaccine, flu vaccine, shingles vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine.

Where can I get more information?

• Speak to your GP.
• Frequently asked questions on RSV infection and vaccine are also available (in English only) at Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) FAQs | NCIRS