TranslateRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infant immunisation
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) information for parents and carers
What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause colds and lung infections in babies and young children.
By two years of age, nearly all children will have had RSV. Often babies and children do not get very sick, but it can sometimes be harmful. RSV can make it hard for babies and young children to breathe and to feed and can cause chest infections.
RSV is a common cause for babies and young children to need hospital care, including intensive care.
RSV spreads easily from person to person by coughs, sneezes or by touching infected surfaces.
What is Beyfortus (nirsevimab)?
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is an immunisation that helps protect babies and young children from severe RSV infections after they are born. Nirsevimab provides immediate protection by giving antibodies directly to the baby, reducing the risk of serious illness.
In most cases, if the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) is given during pregnancy, the baby will not need nirsevimab. Speak with your doctor to discuss if the baby needs it.
Who is recommended to receive Beyfortus (nirsevimab)?
From 1 April 2025, a single dose of Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is recommended for some babies born on or after 1 October 2024 and aged up to 8 months old, when:
- their mother did not receive RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) during pregnancy, or
- their mother was vaccinated less than two weeks before birth, or
- they have a condition that increases their risk of severe RSV, regardless of their mother’s vaccination status.
An additional program will be available for some children up to 24 months (two years of age) entering their second RSV season who have specific risk factors that increase their risk of severe RSV disease.
Where can I get Beyfortus (nirsevimab)?
In 2025, Beyfortus (nirsevimab) will be available as part of a seasonal program through hospitals and GPs from 1 April to 30 September.
Can Beyfortus (nirsevimab) be given at the same time as scheduled childhood vaccines?
Yes, it is safe for use in babies and young children (up to two years of age) and can be given with routine childhood vaccines.
Will the immunisation be recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR)?
Yes. It will be recorded on the AIR.
You can access your child’s immunisation record through MyGov (www.my.gov.au) by logging into your Medicare account, or via the Medicare mobile app.
What are the possible side effects?
The most common reactions include:
- redness, swelling or tenderness at the injection site
- mild fever
- rash.
These reactions are usually mild and go away within a few days. If you have any concerns speak with your healthcare provider.
What should I let my child’s healthcare provider know before the immunisation?
Let your child’s healthcare provider know if your child has had a serious allergic reaction after a previous dose of nirsevimab.
Children with minor illnesses, like a cold, can still safely have the RSV immunisation.
How can I learn more?
You can speak with your healthcare provider, and for more information visit;