Preventing RSV
To help minimise the spread of RSV at home, adopt good hygiene practices, including washing hands thoroughly, keeping a distance from people with cold-like symptoms, and disinfecting personal items.
Approved Immunisations for RSV
RSV protection is now a reality with new preventative therapies that have been proven to prevent severe lower respiratory tract disease and reduce hospitalisation rates. These immunisations are used to protect infants as well as older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
In Australia, RSV immunisations registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration include:
Antibody Therapy for the prevention of RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease in infants entering their first RSV season, and for children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season.
Vaccine for Australians aged 60 years and over to protect against RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease.
Vaccine for Pregnant Women between 28-36 weeks of gestation for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in infants from birth through 6 months age.
Availability of RSV Immunisations
RSV immunisation for infants
The Australian Government recently announced that infant RSV protection will be available across Australia before winter 2025.
The program includes free pregnancy vaccination for eligible mothers, as well as antibody-based RSV immunisation for babies not able to be adequately protected during pregnancy.
Further information is available is available in the Immunisation Handbook.
Vaccine for older adults
The RSV vaccine for Australians aged 60 and over is available in Australia at a cost (on private prescription). It is not subsidised by the Australian Government. Private health insurance coverage may reduce the cost. Speak with your provider to find out more.
For more information on RSV protection and if you, or your child, are eligible, please speak to your healthcare provider.
Get Involved
Do you want to get involved in supporting acceptance of RSV preventative therapies for all at-risk Australians? Join us to Unite Against RSV.
Resources
Fact Sheet – Antibody Therapy for Infants