RSV maternal vaccine added to National Immunisation Program

The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine is now available free under the National Immunisation Program for people who are 28 to 36 weeks pregnant.

RSV is a common and potentially serious illness, particularly for newborns. In 2024 alone, over 12,000 infants were hospitalised in Australia with severe RSV.

Vaccination during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to protect babies from birth, helping to reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in their first months of life.

We're sharing the following resources to support conversations and awareness in your practice and community:

  • Community campaign kit – includes RSV information and printable resources

  • Expert video – featuring a health professional explaining maternal vaccines

  • Case study video – Bre O’Brien shares her daughter’s experience with RSV and the importance of maternal vaccination

Margot Schoonmaker