Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination in pregnancy

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus or RSV affects the lungs and the airways that bring air in and out of the lungs.

Nearly all children will have had RSV by the age of two years. Often babies and children do not get very sick, but sometimes it can 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. 

How is RSV spread?

RSV infections can happen at any time but are most common in winter. 

RSV is easily passed from person to person by coughs, sneezes or by touching RSV on surfaces or objects. 

How can RSV be prevented by vaccination in pregnancy?

Pregnant women are recommended to have the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) from 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, at least two weeks before birth. 

Vaccination makes protective antibodies to RSV which go through the placenta from the mother to the baby. This helps to protect the baby from birth until about six months of age. 

How effective is the RSV vaccine?

The RSV vaccine is very effective in reducing the chance that babies will become seriously ill or need hospital care due to RSV. 

Some babies may still get an RSV infection, but vaccination provides good protection from getting very sick and reduces the risk of needing hospital care.

How long will the RSV vaccine protect my child?

The vaccine provides protection against RSV for five to six months, protecting your baby when they are at greatest risk of getting very sick.

When should I get the vaccine? 

The RSV vaccine is recommended year-round between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. 

Vaccination in pregnancy makes antibodies that pass the protection on to your baby before they are born. If a baby is born less than two weeks after the mother receives RSV vaccine, they may not be protected against RSV and additional immunisation of the baby is recommended during the RSV season (see below).

What if I don’t get the vaccine or have it late in pregnancy?

If you don’t receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, if it was given less than two weeks before birth, or if the baby is at increased risk of RSV, an immunisation called Beyfortus (nirsevimab) may be recommended for the baby during the RSV season.

Nirsevimab provides immediate protection by giving antibodies directly to your baby.  It is available seasonally, from 1 April to 30 September 2025.

In most cases, if the RSV vaccine is given during pregnancy, your baby will not need nirsevimab. Speak with your doctor to discuss if your baby needs it.

Where can I get the vaccine?

The RSV vaccine in pregnancy is free and available at your GP, community pharmacy or antenatal clinic.

Beyfortus (nirsevimab) is also free for babies and offered in 2025 through hospitals and GPs from 1 April to 30 September. 

Provider fees may apply.

Is it safe for my baby?

Yes, the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) and Beyfortus (nirsevimab) are safe and effective. 

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have approved use of Abrysvo in pregnancy and nirsevimab for infants up to two years of age in Australia. 

Are there any side effects of the RSV vaccine?

Side effects of the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) may include pain and redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, muscle aches and headaches. 

Please contact your midwife or GP if you have any concerns.

For more information

Learn more about the RSV maternal and infant protection program 2025 

Watch a 2 min video on RSV vaccination in pregnancy (YouTube)

Read more about RSV and vaccine information at Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation (skai.org.au)

RSV Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the NCIRS website (ncirs.org.au)