RSV vaccines free of charge in N.S. for infants under 8 months, adults 75 and older. Image via Global News
Nova Scotia is rolling out a major initiative to protect its youngest and oldest residents from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The province is spending $6.9 million in the program’s first year to offer free protection against this common, highly contagious seasonal infection.
Until now, RSV vaccines were only available to high-risk children under two and adults living in long-term care. Infants and seniors, however, are among those most vulnerable. RSV can lead to serious complications, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Who will get protection?
Starting this fall, all infants under eight months and adults aged 75 and older will be eligible. Infants will receive Beyfortus, a monoclonal antibody treatment rather than a traditional vaccine. Adults will have the option of Arexvy or Abrysvo vaccines, specially packaged for easy distribution.
A turning point for health care
Dr. Joanne Langley, head of infectious diseases at the IWK Health Centre, described the program as transformative. “Every winter, our emergency rooms are overwhelmed by RSV cases. We simply don’t have enough beds,” she said.
She added that the protection offered to infants not only shields them but also eases pressure on hospitals, benefiting all children needing care. Provinces that have introduced similar programs have reported nearly an 85% drop in RSV hospitalizations.
Earlier this year, Nova Scotia also expanded its vaccine offerings by making shingles shots available to anyone aged 65 and older. Dr. Robert Strang, the province’s chief medical officer, said both moves represent some of the largest vaccine investments he has seen in his career.
Carol Evely receives her shingles vaccine from a mobile public health clinic in Halifax. Seniors in Nova Scotia will soon be able to receive RSV vaccines as well.
Supply and timing considerations
While supply is sufficient, officials urge patience. Health Minister Michelle Thompson explained that vaccine storage requires strict temperature control, and limited space at pharmacies and clinics means doses must be delivered in smaller shipments.
Strang emphasized the benefit of starting the senior program early. “Launching now allows seniors to get protected well ahead of RSV season, before flu and COVID vaccines are rolled out,” he said.
RSV vaccines for seniors will be available at pharmacies and public health clinics beginning September 15. Doctors’ offices will receive their supplies later in the fall. Unlike flu or COVID vaccines, only one dose is required, although boosters may be needed in the future.
Infant program to begin in October
The infant program is set to start October 15, closer to the typical RSV season. Babies born in hospitals will be offered protection before discharge. Infants under eight months who miss the initial offer can still receive it through their primary care provider.
Thompson noted that while the first-year cost is high, expenses are expected to decrease in subsequent years once the initial waves of immunization are completed.
For a Better Future
Health officials stress that while the rollout may take time, ample supply and careful planning will ensure both infants and seniors receive protection. With RSV season approaching, this program marks a major step toward safer winters for Nova Scotia’s most vulnerable residents.
