We are pleased to offer the RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine for pregnant individuals between 28-36 weeks gestation. It will be FREE under the government’s National Immunisation Program.

The RSV vaccine is designed to help protect both parent and baby from severe respiratory infections, which can be particularly dangerous for newborns. By getting vaccinated, you can help reduce the risk of serious illness after birth.

Some key messages to remember:

1. RSV is a leading cause of hospital visits for severe respiratory illnesses especially in babies under 6 months old.
2. The safest way to protect babies from RSV is by vaccinating pregnant people. This helps prevent RSV infections in infants during their first months of life.
3. When a pregnant person gets the RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, they pass protective antibodies to their baby. This helps shield the baby from severe RSV in the first six months after birth.
4. Abrysvo is currently the only RSV vaccine approved for use during pregnancy.
5. A single dose of Abrysvo should be offered to all pregnant people during their 28-week antenatal check-up. It can be given alongside the whooping cough (dTpa) and flu vaccines.

Starting 1 April 2025, the Victorian Government will provide RSV protection for infants who weren’t protected through maternal vaccination or who have specific risk factors. This will be done with a monoclonal antibody called Nirsevimab.Nirsevimab stock is not available until March 2025.

To make an appointment with your GP to discuss these vaccines, call 9217 9400, book online or find us on HotDoc.