RSV immunization program
Learn about Ontario’s publicly funded RSV prevention program
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can be severe for infants and older adults. Vaccinating these populations just before or during RSV season helps to prevent severe disease.
Changes to the RSV prevention program for 2024-25
Products
- New this year is the arrival of the monoclonal antibody BeyfortusTM (nirsevimab), for infants
- Based on real-world data from Europe and the United States for the 2023 RSV season, nirsevimab was 80 to 90 per cent effective in preventing hospitalizations from RSV
- The vaccine AbrysvoTM (RSVpreF) is the publicly funded vaccine for older adults and pregnant individuals who choose not to accept BeyfortusTM for their infant
Eligibility
- All infants born in 2024 and through the 2024-25 RSV season are now eligible for immunization, not just those at high risk
- Residents of retirement homes have been added to the list of eligibility for adults 60+
- Read the full list of those eligible for publicly-funded RSV immunization
Administration
- BeyfortusTM and AbrysvoTM can be co-administered with other vaccines. There is no need to separate them for safety signals
Who is covered for RSV immunization under the publicly funded program?
Adults not covered by the publicly funded program
NACI’s statement on the prevention of RSV disease in older adults strongly recommends that all adults 75+ years with health conditions that put them at high risk for severe RSV disease receive an RSV vaccine.
NACI also recommends that adults 60 to 74 years of age may consider an RSV vaccine in consultation with their health-care provider.
Accessing an RSV vaccine privately
Adults who are not eligible for an RSV vaccine through the public program and would like to access the vaccine can purchase it at a pharmacy with a valid prescription. Pharmacists are authorized to administer the RSV vaccine.
Ordering
All publicly-funded RSV products are expected to be available through Public Health Units starting in August 2024. Contact your Public Health Unit for more ordering information.
Billing
RSV immunization can be billed using OHIP fee code G538 (other immunizing agents), which is an in-basket service for FHO and FHN physicians.
You can bill either an assessment code or a counselling code for a single visit (you cannot bill both). Bill only the code that is most appropriate (e.g. A007 or K013).
Legal disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this page are accurate. Members should, however, be aware that the laws, regulations and other agreements may change over time. The Ontario Medical Association assumes no responsibility for any discrepancies or differences of interpretation of applicable Regulations with the Government of Ontario including but not limited to the Ministry of Health (MOH), and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Members are advised that the ultimate authority in matters of interpretation and payment of insured services (as well as determination of what constitutes an uninsured service) are in the purview of the government. Members are advised to request updated billing information and interpretations – in writing – by contacting their regional OHIP office.