Tejal Somvanshi
Starting March 17, 2025, all newborn babies in New South Wales will have access to free immunisation against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common illness that can cause serious breathing problems in infants.
This new program expands on the February rollout of free RSV vaccines for pregnant women, creating a dual approach to protect babies during their most vulnerable months.
What is RSV?
RSV is a widespread respiratory virus that infects up to 90% of children in their first two years. While it often causes cold-like symptoms in adults and older children, it can lead to severe conditions like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in babies under one year old.
Between 2016 and 2023, NSW recorded over 52,000 RSV-related hospital admissions. About 41% of these cases involved children younger than one year.
Two-Pronged Protection Approach
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park emphasized the program’s importance: “RSV can be very serious, and I know how stressful and anxiety-inducing such a condition can be for parents. From next week, all newborns can access protection from RSV for free. It doubles the options for protection of newborns, either through maternal vaccination or infant immunisation.”
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Option 1: Maternal Vaccination During Pregnancy
Since February, pregnant women can receive a free RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy through the National Immunisation Program.
This approach allows mothers to pass protective antibodies directly to their babies through the placenta, offering protection from birth until about five months of age.
“The antenatal clinic is the best opportunity for pregnant women to be assessed and receive their vaccines. Getting the jab in the clinic saves time and effort,” explains Samantha Moss, Nurse Unit Manager at Nepean Hospital’s Women & Children’s Health Outpatient Department.
Option 2: Direct Immunisation for Newborns
The new program offers nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody treatment, to:
- Newborns whose mothers did not receive RSV vaccination during pregnancy
- Babies with certain medical conditions that put them at high risk, regardless of maternal vaccination
- Children up to 24 months with specific medical conditions
Unlike traditional vaccines, nirsevimab delivers ready-made antibodies that immediately protect against RSV for about five months.
Dr. Helen Goodwin, NSW Chief Paediatrician, reassures parents: “RSV can be a serious illness in babies and young children. Nirsevimab is safe and effective. It provides antibodies directly to the infant, so they have immediate protection against RSV that lasts for five months.”
Real-World Experience
Local mother Rose Marie shared her perspective after deciding to get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy: “Having a daughter in daycare who had RSV last winter, I wanted to have the vaccine to reduce the risk of our next baby contracting the virus especially knowing how prevalent RSV and whooping cough are among babies and toddlers at the moment, particularly going into winter.”
Expected Impact
Health officials estimate this combined strategy will prevent approximately 1,150 RSV-related hospitalizations of babies under six months each year in NSW.
Dr. Archana Koirala, Paediatric Infectious Diseases Clinician at Nepean Hospital, notes: “RSV is the most common cause for hospitalisation of children under 12 months in Australia. By getting a vaccine in pregnancy, it protects your baby from multiple diseases, such as whooping cough and now RSV.”
Parents with questions about RSV protection should speak with their healthcare provider or midwife for guidance on the best option for their family.
For additional information, visit the NSW Health website or refer to their RSV factsheet at www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Factsheets/rsv.pdf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RSV and why is it dangerous for babies?
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common respiratory illness that infects up to 90% of children in their first two years. While it usually causes mild cold-like symptoms in older children and adults, it can lead to serious conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants, often requiring hospitalization. Babies under 12 months are at highest risk, with RSV being the most common cause of hospital admissions for this age group in Australia.
How does the RSV vaccine for pregnant women work?
When pregnant women receive the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy, their bodies produce antibodies against RSV. These antibodies cross the placenta and enter the baby’s bloodstream before birth. This gives newborns immediate protection against RSV that lasts for about 5-6 months, covering the period when babies are most vulnerable to severe RSV illness.
What is nirsevimab and how is it different from a vaccine?
Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody immunisation, not a traditional vaccine. Rather than stimulating the body to produce antibodies, it provides ready-made antibodies that immediately protect against RSV. It’s given as a single injection to newborns before they leave the hospital and offers protection for about five months. This approach is especially valuable for babies whose mothers didn’t receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
Who is eligible for free RSV protection in NSW?
Free RSV protection in NSW is available to: 1) Pregnant women between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy (vaccine), 2) All newborn babies whose mothers weren’t vaccinated during pregnancy (nirsevimab), 3) Newborns with certain medical conditions that increase their risk, regardless of maternal vaccination, and 4) Children up to 24 months with specific medical conditions. The program ensures all newborns can be protected against RSV.
Can my baby receive both types of RSV protection?
Generally, babies don’t need both forms of protection. If you received the RSV vaccine during pregnancy (at least two weeks before delivery), your baby already has antibodies. However, babies with certain medical conditions might receive nirsevimab even if their mother was vaccinated. Your healthcare provider will determine what’s best for your specific situation.
Are there any side effects from RSV protection for pregnant women or babies?
Both the maternal RSV vaccine and nirsevimab for babies have good safety profiles. For pregnant women, common side effects might include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or fatigue – similar to other vaccines. For babies receiving nirsevimab, side effects are minimal. The benefits of preventing severe RSV infection significantly outweigh any potential mild side effects. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
