RSV Prevention for children and adults
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a virus that causes the common cold and more severe respiratory infections in young children. It is also a serious health risk for older adults.
The development of RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments has provided a layer of protection against RSV.
In summary, RSV vaccinations are only given to adults, whereas RSV monoclonal antibodies are recommended for infants in addition to young children who have medical risk factors.
Babies and children - RSV monoclonal antibody
The RSV monoclonal antibody is available for babies and children and can be given to protect them from severe infections like pneumonia.
Babies at increased risk are those born before 37 weeks, babies born with a low birth weight, babies under 12 months of age, children under 2 years with other medical conditions.
Babies will be offered a birth dose in hospital although can also have the vaccine at our practice if the hospital dose is missed.
Eligible patients:
- Babies of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander origin, less than 8mths old
- Babies less than 8mths that fit eligibility criteria
- Babies 8mths - 20mth with certain complex needs
- Children with medical risk factors for severe RSV disease in their 2nd RSV season
The best time to have this done is at the 7-10 day check with your GP.
Phone our reception team on 5578 9000 to book in your baby.
Adults - RSV Vaccine
In adults, RSV typically causes upper respiratory tract disease, with a runny nose and conjunctivitis. It is more likely to cause ear and sinus infections than most other viruses.
Approximately 25% of adults who get RSV will get pneumonia, bronchitis or exacerbation of asthma / COPD, especially if they are older than 60 with a high risk disease, over 75 yrs old, or of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin.
RSV has been shown to result in longer hospital stays than influenza and has increased mortality rate after 1 year.
RSV vaccination is recommended for:
- All people 75 years and older
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years or older
- People with medical risk factors for severe RSV disease aged 60 years or older
- Pregnant women to protect their newborn infant
For example, if you are over 60 and have chronic heart or lung conditions, are immunocompromised or are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin, you would likely benefit from the RSV vaccine.
Anyone over the age of 75 is also likely to benefit from the RSV vaccine.
If you are in any of these categories, please book an appointment with your GP. Appointments for vaccinations can be booked over the phone. Online bookings are not available for vaccine appointments.
The RSV vaccine is currently a private vaccine, which means it is not government-funded.