00:02It's a WA first aimed at protecting the most vulnerable. Free RSV vaccinations for those
00:08aged 65 and over living in aged care facilities. A move to tackle a common virus.
00:16We had home closures around COVID outbreaks but more often around RSV outbreaks so it's
00:22becoming more prevalent in the community.
00:24RSV or respiratory syncyl virus is a highly contagious respiratory illness. More than
00:311,200 cases were reported in WA last year, a third were people aged over 65. The vaccine
00:39can normally cost up to $300.
00:42Around 15,000 aged care residents will be vaccinated this year, helping to keep people well and prevent
00:50avoidable hospitalisations.
00:51The rollout is just one of several measures aimed at reducing pressure on WA hospitals
00:57this winter. It follows WA's worst flu season on record in 2025 with more than 35,000 cases
01:05recorded. The peak body for WA GPs welcoming the move.
01:09This is a really positive news. It will help to reduce the severity of RSV as an infection.
01:15I'd love to see this being available for all patients aged 65 and above because it would
01:20actually reduce the other hospitalisations and complications that these patients may experience.
01:25some residents will start to receive the vaccination in March.
01:29much
01:29much.
01:30much.
01:30much.
01:32much.
01:32much.
01:32much.
01:32much.
01:32much.
01:32much.
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