Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Information
RSV 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.
The RSV vaccine is currently available as a single vaccination to people aged 60 years and older, and pregnant women at 28-36 weeks gestation.
Who is recommended to receive an RSV vaccination?
- 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
Who is eligible for a free RSV vaccination?
Effective from Monday 3rd February 2025, the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP) will provide one free RSV vaccine to the following eligible people:.
- Pregnant women (at any age) at 28-36 weeks gestation
Please note, NIP vaccines can be limited, and not all pharmacies or pharmacist immunisers will have access to these free vaccines at the time of your appointment.
If you believe you may be eligible for a free vaccine, it is recommended that you speak with your pharmacist prior to making your appointment to confirm availability of the free vaccine.
If you do not meet the NIP eligibility, or the pharmacy does not have the free vaccines available at the pharmacy, they will discuss your options with you.
For more information on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) please click here.