Australia's first vaccine for contagious respiratory virus approved for use

Australia's first vaccine to fight against the contagious respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has today been approved for use.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has green-lit AREXVY for those aged 60 and over.

The vaccine – which has already been approved for use in the United Kingdom, the European Union, the United States, Canada and Japan – will be given out in single doses.

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RSV typically affects children but concerns have been raised for the nation's aging population, who are at risk of serious illness and, in rare cases, death.

Westmead Children's Hospital Infectious Diseases Expert Robert Booy said older adults with the virus, especially those with underlying medical conditions, have fallen under the radar.

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"RSV infection can have a significant impact on the health of older adults including those with existing medical conditions, which can add pressure onto our healthcare system," he said.

"Until now, RSV did not have a vaccine or specific treatment for older adults – this is a real step forward for public health and a turning point in our effort to reduce the impact of RSV."

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RSV cases in Australia were first counted in 2021, making it difficult to completely understand how common the virus is and what its impact is on the population.

The virus leads to cold and flu-like symptoms in most adults, who may experience a blocked nose, cough, fatigue, fever, body aches and a headache.

It is highly contagious and spreads through the air or via surface contamination, usually in autumn and winter.