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Starting in September, elderly individuals aged 75 years and above will be enrolled in a preventive program for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Ministry of Health updates regulations under Pharmacy Act, granting pharmacy professionals the ability to administer certain medications in Burlington, ON, as of August 27th, 2025.

Imminent Expansion of Respiratory Virus Prevention Program: Individuals Over 75 to Be Enrolled...
Imminent Expansion of Respiratory Virus Prevention Program: Individuals Over 75 to Be Enrolled Starting in September

Starting in September, elderly individuals aged 75 years and above will be enrolled in a preventive program for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

The Ontario government has announced an expansion of its Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunization program, aiming to protect the most vulnerable during the upcoming respiratory illness season.

Starting this fall, RSV immunization will be available through Ontario's publicly funded programs to all individuals aged 75 and older. The Ontario Ministry of Health, in collaboration with local public health units, will organise the administration of the vaccine distribution for this age group.

Pharmacy professionals are now authorised to administer the RSV vaccine, but it's important to note that they do not have direct access to the publicly funded RSV vaccine supply. More details on where families will be able to access RSV immunization will be provided in the coming weeks.

Certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74, such as residents of long-term care homes or retirement homes, are already included in the RSV immunization program. Additionally, infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season, and high-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second season, are also part of the program.

Pregnant women have the option to receive the RSV vaccine Abrysvo®, which can help provide protection to infants at birth. Eligible newborns, infants, and high-risk children can receive the Beyfortus® immunization.

The Ontario government's action is intended to provide the tools necessary for the most vulnerable to protect themselves and their families during respiratory illness season. The expansion of the RSV prevention program is a significant step towards ensuring the health and safety of Ontarians during the upcoming winter months.

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