The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) maternal protection program is an Australian Government vaccine program, funded through the National Immunisation Program. The maternal program provides a free RSV vaccine (brand name Abrysvo®) to pregnant women, to protect their baby against RSV from birth.

This program complements the RSV infant protection program, which provides a free RSV immunisation (brand name Beyfortus™) to babies and young children that need extra protection against RSV. See more information about the SA Health infant RSV protection program.

Getting vaccinated during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to protect your baby against serious illness from RSV.

What is the RSV maternal vaccine?

The only RSV vaccine recommended during pregnancy is Abrysvo.

The Abrysvo vaccine helps pregnant women develop antibodies against RSV and these antibodies are then passed onto the baby through the placenta. This helps to protect the baby from RSV from birth and in the first few months of life, when they are most vulnerable.

Research has shown that getting a vaccine from 28 weeks of pregnancy reduces the risk of severe illness from RSV in babies younger than 6 months of age by about 70%.

Eligibility

The maternal RSV Abrysvo vaccine is available for free from 28 weeks pregnancy, through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Safety

It is safe to get immunised against RSV at the same time as other routine immunisations.

See more information about vaccine safety.

How to access

To get vaccinated against RSV during pregnancy, speak with your GP, midwife, pharmacist or usual immunisation provider about eligibility and to book an appointment.

While the vaccine is free for eligible pregnant women, some providers may charge a fee for their service. Ask about fees when making an appointment.

Information for parents and carers

Some babies may need extra protection against RSV and may be eligible to receive a free infant RSV immunisation (Beyfortus), as part of the State Government funded infant RSV protection program.

Further information