Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a virus that commonly causes infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tract, especially in autumn and winter. Though it can affect people of all ages, infants and young children are most frequently affected.

While most individuals experience mild to moderate symptoms that self-resolves, such as runny nose, cough, fever, infants, older adults, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, or weakened immune systems, are at increased risk of developing more severe illness. 

A single dose is recommended for people who are eligible. Protection lasts for at least 2 years, and the need for further doses has not been established.

Eligible under the NIP^ in-pharmacy:

• Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 60+
• All individuals aged 75+
• Pregnant people at 28 to 36 weeks gestation.

^Subject to availability of government-funded stock. No fees apply.

Eligible Privately:

• Immunocompetent individuals aged 60 – 74
• Immunocompromised individuals with specific medical risk conditions aged 50

In WA, state funded RSV vaccinations are also available for vulnerable* patients aged 60-74, or vulnerable* patients aged 50-59 with specific medical risk conditions.

Vulnerable patients are defined as living in a residential aged care home, receiving Commonwealth Support at Home*, living in specialist disability accommodation (SDA)**, in residential mental health services, experiencing homeless, in a correctional facility.

*Excludes persons on Support at Home waitlist and those on Commonwealth Home Support Package (CHSP)

**Excludes persons on SDA waitlist or receiving supported independent living (SIL)