RSV Vaccine: What is RSV and Who Is Eligible?
RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It is a common and highly contagious virus that affects the airways and lungs. For many people, RSV may feel like a cold, but it can cause more serious illness in older adults, babies and people with higher health risks
Why RSV can be serious
RSV can spread through droplets when someone coughs, sneezes or talks. It can also live on surfaces for several hours, which makes it easy to pass from person to person. In some people, RSV can lead to more serious breathing problems, including bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Older adults, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women and babies are among the groups where protection against RSV is especially important.
Free RSV vaccine for eligible patients
The RSV vaccine is available for free under the National Immunisation Program for eligible patients.
Eligible groups include:
Adults aged 75 years and over
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over
Pregnant women from 28 weeks, ideally during 28–36 weeks of pregnancy, to help protect their baby from birth
RSV vaccine during pregnancy
Pregnant women are recommended to receive the RSV vaccine from 28 weeks of pregnancy, ideally before 37 weeks. When given during pregnancy, the mother produces antibodies that are passed to the baby through the placenta. This helps protect the baby against RSV from birth and for the first months of life.
Can I get other vaccines at the same appointment?
If you are booking an appointment with your GP, it is a good time to check whether you are also due for other important health care.
You can ask your GP about:
health assessments
medication reviews
flu vaccines
COVID vaccines
other recommended vaccines for your age or health needs
Your GP or nurse can advise what is suitable for you.
Book an appointment
Are you or someone in your family eligible for the RSV vaccine?
Call us for more information or book a GP appointment today. Our team can help check your eligibility and discuss whether the RSV vaccine is recommended for you.
Please note: The RSV vaccine is funded under the National Immunisation Program for eligible patients. Consultation fees may apply. Information from Department of Health, Disability and Aging.
