Pregnant Queenslanders now have access to free RSV immunisation, after an existing program was expanded.
State Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the updated program built on the $31 million RSV paediatric immunisation program already offering free immunisation to newborn babies, eligible infants and young children.
Minister Nicholls said the RSV vaccine Abrysvo could be safely administered to expectant mothers between 28 and 36 weeks of their pregnancy to provide newborn infants with protection against severe RSV disease from birth up to six months of age.
“We know almost all Queensland children will experience at least one RSV infection by the time they turn two, with the virus the most common cause of hospitalisations among infants and young children,” he said.
“This year to date, Queensland has recorded more than 39,400 RSV cases across the state, with around 400 new cases currently recorded every week.”
Minister Nicholls said while RSV could infect people of all ages, newborn babies and young children were particularly vulnerable to severe illness and may need to be admitted to hospital.
“The vaccine can reduce severe disease and decrease hospitalisation rates.”
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said the results of the RSV paediatric immunisation program were already being seen among infant hospitalisation rates.
“As of November 24 this year, we recorded 372 fewer hospitalisations among babies aged under six months compared to the same time last year,” Dr Gerrard said.
“Based on current figures, we estimate the expanded RSV immunisation program will prevent around 960 hospitalisations among Queensland children next year during their first six months.”
Learn more about RSV immunisation.
