Babies and seniors will be able to get a free RSV vaccine.

The province says people over 75 and infants under 8 months are eligible.

Chief medical officer of health Dr. Robert Strang says it’s a one-time vaccine.

“The research will show us maybe in a few years that there could be a need for a booster, but right now people get a one-time vaccine for RSV and they won’t have to get it every year,” said Dr. Strang.

RSV is a common virus that can lead to respiratory problems like pneumonia.

Dr. Joanne Langley is the head of infectious diseases at the IWK, and says it will help protect the most vulnerable.

“Every child gets RSV by the time they’re two or three years old. If they get it in the first year of life, two or three babies out of 100 will be admitted to hospital for RSV,” said Dr. Langley.

The first appointments through pharmacies and public health will open on Monday, September 15.

Primary care providers will start offering the vaccine in November.