More New Brunswick seniors will soon be eligible for the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine at no cost.
The provincial government says people aged 75 and older can begin booking free appointments on October 14 through the online provincial scheduler.
Premier Susan Holt said the expansion is aimed at protecting seniors while easing pressure on the health-care system.
“By making the RSV vaccine accessible for more New Brunswick seniors, we’re also helping to reduce hospitalizations, easing the pressure on our health-care system, and, most importantly, keeping our seniors healthy and safe,” Holt said in a government release.
Health Minister John Dornan said the change is focused on those most at risk.
“This population is at higher risk of serious illness from RSV, and, by making this vaccine more accessible, we’re helping to prevent hospitalizations, reduce strain on our health system and support healthier aging in our communities,” Dornan said.
The province says RSV was designated a reportable disease under the Public Health Act in early 2024.
The virus tends to circulate more widely in the winter months and can cause serious illness in older adults.
During the 2024–25 respiratory illness season, there were 73 hospitalizations linked to RSV in New Brunswick, according to a government release. The vaccine was first added to the provincial immunization program last fall.
At that time, it was offered free to people 60 and older living in long-term care facilities, alternate-level-of-care patients, and those in rehabilitation units or acute care beds awaiting transfer.
Dornan said while evidence on long-term effectiveness is still emerging, current data show the vaccine is effective in preventing severe disease in older adults.
“Investing in targeted immunization programs protects vulnerable populations while also helping to reduce strain on the health-care system,” he said.
People with questions are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider or pharmacist.
