RSV Protection
For the first time, RSV immunisations for babies and older adults is now available in Australia, marking a new era for RSV protection.
RSV Protection for Infants and Older Adults
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. Based on decades of research, these immunisations are used to protect infants, as well as older adults from severe RSV.
RSV Protection for Infants
As part of the National RSV Mother and Infant Protection Program, RSV protection for babies is now available across the country, either as RSV vaccination for pregnant mothers or an immunisation for infants.
Maternal Vaccination (called Abrysvo) – a vaccine given between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy so a mother can develop and pass on protective antibodies to her baby when born. Protection lasts for 5-6 months after birth.
The vaccine is available free for all eligible pregnant mothers across Australia through the National Immunisation Program.
Infant Immunisation (called Beyfortus) – ready-made antibodies that offer same-day protection against severe RSV infection. One injection offers infants protection for 5-6 months during the RSV season.
State and territory governments provide free infant immunisation for babies whose mothers did not receive RSV vaccination during pregnancy. An overview of eligibility for infant RSV immunisation in winter 2025 can be found here.
RSV Protection for Adults
Vaccination for older Australians aged 60 years and over provides lasting protection against RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease.
Two vaccines for older Australians are available in Australia at a cost (on private prescription). They are not subsidised by the Australian Government. Private health insurance coverage may reduce the cost.
The Department of Health and Aged Care provides further advice on recommendations and eligibility for RSV immunisations. Further information is also available in the Immunisation Handbook.
For specific information on RSV protection, including eligibility for you, or your child please speak to your healthcare provider.
Resources
Fact Sheet – Antibody Therapy for Infants
Fact Sheet – RSV Vaccination for Older Australians
RSV Immunisation Guidance Tool
We are pleased to share with you the brand new RSV immunisation Guidance Tool, designed to help current and future parents and caregivers as well as health care providers. This tool will provide you with the best option for RSV immunisation based on the answers to some simple questions, and has been developed by researchers, clinicians and consumers at the Kids Research Institute. It is currently based on the 2025 Western Australian RSV immunisation program.