RSV Vaccine

Service Description

RSV is often compared to Covid-19 because it is a highly contagious viral infection that can spread easily. When an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes, their infectious droplets can be breathed in by others. RSV commonly affects infants and children; however, it can also cause severe illness in older adults. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to help protect yourself from serious disease caused by RSV infection. RSV vaccination is recommended for: - Pregnant women (at any age) at 28-36 weeks gestation - All adults aged 75 years and older - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 – 74 years - Adults aged 60 to 74 years with medical conditions that increase their risk of severe disease due to RSV, such as: (cardiac disease, chronic respiratory conditions, immunocompromising conditions, chronic metabolic disorders, chronic kidney disease (stage 4 or 5) & chronic neurological conditions). FREE Vaccine The RSV vaccine is free for pregnant women, certain newborns, and eligible older adults under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). For Older Adults: The Arexvy® vaccine is free for Australians aged 75 and over, and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over. For Pregnant Women: The Abrysvo® vaccine is free for all pregnant women between 28 and 36 weeks gestation. This passes immunity on to the baby to protect them from birth for up to 6 months. For Newborns and Infants: Nirsevimab (a monoclonal antibody immunisation) is provided free by NSW Health for eligible babies, such as those whose mothers were not vaccinated during pregnancy, or babies with specific medical risk conditions.