As RSV Awareness Week begins, Australians are being encouraged to speak with their GP about available protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory virus that can cause serious illness in some people.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) is reminding the public that RSV is not just a seasonal cold. While many people experience mild symptoms, the virus can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation and even death, particularly among babies, older Australians and those with underlying health conditions.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said many Australians still underestimate the impact RSV can have.
“There are now funded vaccines available for people who need protection most,” Dr McMullen said.
This year, the Australian Government added the RSV vaccine to the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for people aged 75 years and over, while eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over can also access the vaccine. Maternal RSV vaccination remains available for eligible pregnant women to help protect newborn babies during their first months of life.
According to the AMA, more than 225,000 mothers have received the maternal RSV vaccine since it became available in February last year. The organisation says this has helped reduce RSV cases among young children, with reported cases falling from around 86,000 in 2024 to 78,000 in 2025.
Dr McMullen encouraged anyone with questions about vaccines to speak with their regular GP.
She said RSV Awareness Week provides an opportunity for Australians to review their winter health protection, including vaccines for RSV, influenza and COVID-19.
Last year, RSV was the third most common cause of respiratory virus-related hospitalisations among older Australians. National data also showed that 587 deaths in Australia involved RSV.
Health authorities are encouraging eligible Australians to check whether they qualify for RSV vaccination and discuss their options with a healthcare professional.
More information about RSV and available vaccinations is available through the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-vaccine
