Mary Pyche faced a dilemma when her partner, Gregg Lambert, 72, was hospitalized earlier this year due to a severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Despite having lung cancer, Lambert did not qualify for a free RSV vaccination under Nova Scotia’s publicly funded program, which only covers infants under eight months old, adults 60 and older in long-term care or awaiting placement, and adults 75 and older.
This coverage gap left Pyche, 68, and Lambert feeling unsettled. As social workers and immunocompromised individuals, they are concerned about supporting a two-tiered healthcare system. Although they have private health insurance, it does not cover RSV shots, unlike the province’s coverage of annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
The cost of purchasing the RSV vaccine out-of-pocket is over $320, including the injection fee, according to information from two Halifax-area pharmacies. Pyche expressed confusion about the differing treatment of RSV protection compared to other vaccines recommended for health and well-being during the winter season.
Recent data from the province’s respiratory watch dashboard revealed that 17 individuals over 65 died from RSV infections in the past year, with nearly 400 hospitalizations. Lisa MacPherson, 62, shared her experience of hospitalization due to RSV, emphasizing the financial implications and advocating for broader coverage in the free vaccine program to save costs for the healthcare system.
In response, the Department of Health and Wellness highlighted that publicly funded vaccine programs consider evidence, disease burden, and expert advice. While the National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommended RSV vaccines for adults aged 65 to 74 with high-risk chronic conditions, the province is reviewing this guidance. Individuals not eligible for public vaccination are advised to explore private vaccine options with their healthcare providers.
MacPherson and others affected by RSV infections continue to urge the province to reevaluate its approach to RSV vaccine eligibility, emphasizing the potential cost savings and benefits of preventing hospitalizations through broader coverage.
Overall, the call for expanded RSV vaccine access in Nova Scotia persists, driven by personal experiences and the belief in the importance of preventive healthcare measures.