RSV vaccine available for pregnant women in February 2025

From 3 February, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be available for eligible pregnant women under the National Immunisation Program.  

The RSV maternal vaccine is: 

  • recommended between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.  

  • available for free if patients hold or are eligible for a Medicare card.  

  • the safest way to protect newborn babies against RSV and serious complications. 

It’s important to inform your patients about the new available vaccine. Getting a vaccine in pregnancy reduces the risk of severe RSV disease in infants less than 6 months of age by about 70%.  

The Australian Immunisation Handbook has been updated and gives detailed information about the maternal Abyrsvo vaccine. Infant and children vaccines will be available according to jurisdiction. See state and territory guidance for details of each program.

Patient friendly information can be found at www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/when-to-get-vaccinated/immunisation-for-pregnancy

Margot Schoonmaker