Nova Scotia RSV vaccine program leaves out some vulnerable adults

Some Nova Scotians say the province’s free RSV vaccination program does not go far enough, leaving out adults who are at higher risk of severe illness but do not meet the current age or caresetting rules. The program covers infants under eight months, adults 60 and older who live in or are waiting for longterm care, and adults 75 and older. That means people such as 72yearold Gregg Lambert, who has lung cancer, are not eligible for a publicly funded shot even after being hospitalized with RSV earlier this year. Patients interviewed by CBC said the outofpocket cost is more than $300, and they argued broader coverage could help prevent hospital stays. Provincial health officials said vaccine programs are based on evidence, disease burden, risk of severe illness and expert advice, and they are reviewing updated national guidance that recommends RSV vaccines for some adults aged 65 to 74 with highrisk chronic conditions.