Why We Strongly Recommend the RSV Vaccine in Late Pregnancy
Protecting your baby before they take their first breath
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is one of the most common causes of severe respiratory illness in infants. It’s especially dangerous in the first few months of life—when a baby’s lungs and immune system are still developing. Until now, there hasn’t been a great way to protect newborns from RSV.
But that’s changed.
Abrysvo®, the new maternal RSV vaccine, is now free for all pregnant women in Australia between 28 and 36 weeks gestation under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
If you’re pregnant and busy juggling work, life, and everything in between, here’s what you need to know—and why it’s worth acting on at your next antenatal appointment.
What is Abrysvo®?
Abrysvo® is a vaccine designed specifically for use during pregnancy. When given between 28 and 36 weeks, your body creates protective antibodies against RSV. These antibodies cross the placenta and help protect your baby’s tiny airways from birth until at least 6 months of age.
💡 Babies whose mothers had Abrysvo® during pregnancy were 70% less likely to be hospitalised with RSV.
Why does timing matter?
Earlier is better. Aim to have the vaccine as close to 28 weeks as possible. This gives your body enough time to generate antibodies and pass them to your baby before birth.
If the vaccine is given within 2 weeks of delivery, there may not be enough time for your body to transfer protective antibodies, and your baby may be offered a different RSV product (nirsevimab) after birth.
Is the RSV vaccine safe?
Yes. The vaccine has been thoroughly studied in thousands of pregnant women and is approved in Australia, the USA, UK, and Europe. It cannot cause RSV illness, and most side effects are mild—like a sore arm or mild headache.
Over 60,000 pregnant women in Australia have already received it, and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has also approved it as safe and effective.
Can I get it with other vaccines?
Yes. Abrysvo® can be given at the same time as your recommended whooping cough (pertussis) and flu vaccines.
Where can I get it?
At Walker Street Doctors, we’re now offering Abrysvo® as part of your routine pregnancy care. It's free under the National Immunisation Program.
We can coordinate your RSV vaccine alongside your 28-week pregnancy visit—or even combine it with your flu or whooping cough vaccines if needed.
Why we’re passionate about this
We know many of our pregnant patients are professionals with full calendars, family obligations, and little spare time. But if there’s one thing worth prioritising—it’s protecting your baby before they’re even born.
By acting now, you can help your baby avoid serious illness, hospitalisation, and long nights of worry in those vulnerable early months.
It’s one vaccine. One appointment. Months of protection.
Ready to book?
We’ll talk you through everything at your next appointment, or you can book online to arrange your RSV immunisation at a time that suits you.
Still have questions?
Our GPs and nurses are happy to answer them. We’re here to support you—and your growing family—every step of the way.
