RSV vaccination
RSV vaccination is available in pregnancy and for eligible older adults
Maternal vaccination is offered year-round from 28 weeks. The separate Victorian infant program has seasonal eligibility.
What it is, and why it matters
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, can cause a cold-like illness, bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Young infants, older adults and people with some medical conditions are at greater risk of severe disease.
Maternal vaccination, older-adult vaccination and the infant immunisation program are different pathways. Their eligibility and timing should be checked separately.
How rsv vaccination works
Vaccination during pregnancy helps the parent pass antibodies to the baby before birth. It is recommended from 28 weeks in each pregnancy, throughout the year.
Older adults may be eligible for RSV vaccination. The separate infant program uses passive immunisation provided through maternity and child-health services; it is not the same as maternal or adult vaccination.
Individual assessment. This general information does not determine which vaccination is suitable for you. Your clinician discusses the available options, benefits, risks, timing and funding before you decide.
Funding and eligibility for rsv vaccination
Anchored to the National Immunisation Program schedule and ATAGI advice. Your immuniser confirms your eligibility at the pre-vaccination consultation.
Pregnant people from 28 weeks in each pregnancy
Subject to Medicare eligibility. The clinician confirms gestation, previous doses and suitability.
Adults aged 75 and over
One dose, subject to Medicare eligibility and vaccination history.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 and over
One dose, subject to Medicare eligibility and vaccination history.
Other adults in recommended or consideration groups
An individual assessment is needed. Some adults aged 60 to 74, and adults from 50 with medical risk conditions, may consider vaccination.
Eligible infants and young children
A separate seasonal infant program has its own criteria and providers. Ask the maternity team or child-health provider about current access.
Doses and timing
Schedules below reflect typical recommendations. Your immuniser will confirm exactly what applies to you, including any catch-up doses and co-administration with other vaccines.
- Maternal vaccination is recommended from 28 weeks in each pregnancy. Vaccination after 36 weeks may still be considered after assessment.
- When vaccination is given less than two weeks before birth, there may be less time to transfer antibodies. The maternity team should assess whether the infant program is indicated.
- Eligible older adults receive a single dose. Routine repeat-dose recommendations have not been established.
- Do not delay pregnancy vaccination to wait for winter. Gestation and expected delivery timing guide the consultation.
What to expect
- Injection-site discomfort, tiredness, headache and muscle aches can occur. The clinician will discuss expected reactions and uncommon serious risks for the option being considered.
- A severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or relevant component requires specialist assessment. Stay for the recommended observation period, usually at least 15 minutes.
Precautions
- Tell the immuniser about previous serious reactions, medicines, immune conditions, pregnancy and any current illness before vaccination.
- The immuniser checks the option appropriate to pregnancy or older-adult use. Tell the maternity team about previous RSV vaccination and expected delivery timing.
Benefits, limitations and individual advice
Maternal vaccination reduces the risk of severe RSV illness in early infancy, and older-adult vaccination reduces RSV disease risk in eligible adults. Protection is incomplete and depends on individual circumstances and timing.
FAQs about rsv vaccination
Am I too late after 36 weeks of pregnancy?
Not necessarily. Vaccination may still be considered from 28 weeks onward, including after 36 weeks. Speak promptly with the maternity team about your expected delivery and infant protection options.
Is older-adult RSV vaccination funded?
NIP funding is available for adults aged 75 and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 and over, subject to Medicare and clinical eligibility.
Does every baby need the separate infant immunisation?
No. Eligibility depends on factors including maternal vaccination, time before birth, the infant's risk and the current Victorian seasonal program. The maternity or child-health team can assess this.
Primary references
Book your rsv vaccination
Contact the pharmacy to check service availability, suitability and booking options.
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