OLDER Australians are rolling up their sleeves to protect themselves against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), with new research showing strong support for the recently introduced Federally funded vaccination program as Australia experiences a significant rise in cases this winter.
New survey results released during RSV Awareness Week reveal that 60 per cent of eligible Australians have either already received the free RSV vaccine or intend to do so soon.
The findings come as RSV infections continue to outpace both Coved-19 and influenza nationwide, with more than 52,000 cases recorded so far in 2026.
Among Australians aged 75 years and older, 6526 cases have already been reported this year.
The survey, conducted by the Immunisation Foundation of Australia (IFA), found RSV vaccination is rapidly becoming part of the winter health routine for older Australians, with 63 per cent of respondents saying protection against RSV is just as important as receiving a flu shot.
IFA Founder and Executive Director Catherine Hughes said the results demonstrated a strong willingness among older Australians to protect themselves.
“What’s holding many back isn’t reluctance, it’s simply not knowing the vaccine exists or that it’s now free. That’s something we can fix,” Ms Hughes said.
“These findings show that older Australians understand the value of RSV protection and are open to taking steps to protect their health.”
The survey of 1011 Australians eligible for the free vaccine found awareness remains the biggest barrier among those yet to be vaccinated.
Among respondents who were undecided, 76 per cent said they had either never heard of RSV or knew very little about the virus before taking part in the survey, while 57 per cent were unaware the vaccine was available free of charge.
Only seven per cent of respondents said they did not intend to receive the vaccine.
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that often causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe illness.
