Fertility advice
RSV Vaccines
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the respiratory system, particularly in infants and young children. While most children experience mild symptoms, RSV can cause serious illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants under one year of age.
To help protect against RSV, new prevention programs will roll out in Australia starting in 2025.
WHAT IS RSV?
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that affects the respiratory system. It is especially dangerous for:
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Infants under six months, who are at risk of severe infections like bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
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Premature babies, due to their underdeveloped lungs and weaker immune systems.
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Elderly individuals, particularly those with underlying conditions such as asthma, COPD, or heart disease.
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact, or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms range from mild (runny nose, cough, low-grade fever) to severe (wheezing, difficulty breathing, or bluish lips). Severe cases can lead to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, often requiring hospitalisation.
RSV is most active in late autumn, winter, and early spring in Australia.
Symptoms of RSV include:
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Runny nose
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Cough and/or wheeze
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Fever
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Difficulty breathing in severe cases
From early 2025, two free immunisation programs will be introduced under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) to protect pregnant women and infants from severe RSV disease.
MATERNAL RSV VACCINE (Abrysvo®)
From 3 February 2025, Abrysvo® will be offered to pregnant women to protect their infants from RSV from birth up to 6 months of age.
Who will be eligible for this program?
Pregnant women between 28 and 36 weeks gestation.
Key information
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A single dose of Abrysvo® is recommended during this time frame.
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The vaccine can be co-administered with Pertussis and Influenza vaccines.
Existing patients
If you are an existing patient, you can book directly with our nurse to receive the vaccine.
New patients
New patients will need to book a consultation with a GP before the vaccine can be administered.
NIRSEVIMAB (Beyfortus™) FOR INFANTS
From 17 March 2025, Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody, will be available to protect eligible infants from severe RSV disease.
Who will be eligible for this program?
Infants up to 24 months of age who are not protected through maternal vaccination OR have risk factors for severe RSV disease.
How to access this vaccine
All infants who may be eligible must first have an appointment with a GP to assess their eligibility. If eligible, the vaccine will be ordered specifically for your child, as we are unable to stock it in bulk.
