Release
Department of Health, Office of the Premier
October 02, 2025
FREDERICTON (GNB) – More New Brunswickers will be eligible to receive the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine free of charge beginning Oct. 14.
“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,” said Premier Susan Holt. “It’s an investment in people and in the people who care for us – in our health-care workers, parents, grandparents, neighbours and friends.”
The virus was designated as a reportable disease in New Brunswick under the Public Health Act in early 2024. It tends to circulate more widely during the winter months and poses a significant health risk to older adults.
“Expanding access to the RSV vaccine for individuals 75 years and older is an important step in protecting their health and well-being,” said Health Minister John Dornan. “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.”
During the 2024-25 respiratory illness season, there were 73 hospitalizations related to the virus.
The vaccine was added to the provincial immunization program last fall for people 60 and older living in long-term care facilities, alternate-level-of-care patients, and those 60 and older in rehabilitation units or acute care beds awaiting transfer to rehabilitation.
“While evidence on long-term vaccine effectiveness is still emerging, current data has shown the RSV vaccine is very effective in preventing severe disease in older adults,” said Dornan. “Investing in targeted immunization programs protects vulnerable populations while also helping to reduce strain on the health-care system.”
More information about the vaccine is available online. People with questions about the vaccine are encouraged to discuss the matter with their primary care provider or pharmacist.
Pharmacy appointments for people 75 and older can be booked online through the provincial scheduler.
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Media Contact(s)
Tara Chislett, communications, Department of Health, [email protected].