Each year, as the cooler months arrive in New South Wales, so does the seasonal risk of respiratory infections. Among the most serious threats to young children is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)—a highly contagious virus that affects the lungs and airways and is a leading cause of hospitalisation in babies under 12 months.
But in 2025, there is good news for families across the state: RSV protection is now available for free through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). For the first time, two highly effective tools are being offered to prevent serious RSV illness in babies and young children:
- The RSV vaccination Abrysvo is given to expectant mothers between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy.
- Nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody for infants and young children up to 24 months, especially those at higher risk.
At Balgowlah Village Medical Practice, we are proud to be part of this important public health initiative and we are fully stocked and ready to provide RSV protection for eligible patients.
Understanding RSV: Why Prevention Matters
RSV is a common virus but for newborns and infants, especially those under 6 months, it can be life-threatening. It causes lung infections such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia and spreads quickly through schools, daycares and homes during the winter season.
While most children experience only mild cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to severe complications in:
∙ Babies under 6 months of age
∙ Premature babies
∙ Infants with heart, lung, or immune conditions
∙ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
∙ Infants with underlying medical conditions
Up to 70% of babies are infected with RSV during their first year of life and it’s the most common reason for hospital admissions in children under 1.
Option 1: Abrysvo – RSV Vaccination During Pregnancy
A major advancement in RSV prevention is the development of Abrysvo, a vaccine for pregnant women that protects babies from RSV before they are born.
How It Works
When you get the Abrysvo vaccine between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy, your body creates antibodies that are transferred to your unborn child through the placenta. These antibodies provide immediate, passive protection during the first crucial months of life—when babies are most vulnerable to RSV infection but are too young for most vaccines.
Who Can Get It?
All expecting moms between weeks 28 and 36 of pregnancy are presently eligible for free Abrysvo vaccinations under the National Immunization Program.
Important Notes:
∙ The vaccine is not kept on-site. It must be ordered specifically for each patient, so please contact us in advance to request it.
∙ The earlier within the 28–36 week window you are vaccinated, the better the transfer of antibodies to your baby.
�� Call Balgowlah Village Medical Practice today to discuss Abrysvo and book your appointment.
Option 2: Nirsevimab – Monoclonal Antibody for Babies and Infants
If your baby has already been born, there is still excellent protection available in the form of Nirsevimab—a long-acting monoclonal antibody (brand name Beyfortus).
What is Nirsevimab?
Unlike vaccines, which stimulate your child’s immune system to make antibodies, nirsevimab is a ready-made antibody that protects immediately. It just needs to be injected once, and it provides protection for roughly five months, which is the whole RSV season.
Who Is Eligible?
Your child may be eligible to receive free nirsevimab under the National Immunisation Program if they are:
∙ Under eight months old and born on or after October 1, 2023, or
∙ Under 24 months of age with certain medical risk factors such as:
o Prematurity (less than 29 weeks gestation)
o Congenital heart disease
o Chronic lung disease
o Immunodeficiency or neuromuscular disorders
At Balgowlah Village Medical Practice, we currently have nirsevimab in stock and can administer it to eligible infants.
Protecting Your Family at Balgowlah Village Medical Practice
As a trusted medical provider in the Northern Beaches community, we are committed to offering up-to-date, evidence-based protection for our youngest and most vulnerable patients.
Why Choose Us?
∙ Experienced and caring doctors and nurses
∙ Direct access to government-funded immunisations
∙ Convenient appointment scheduling
∙ Personalised advice for your baby’s individual needs
Whether you’re planning your baby’s arrival or already navigating life with a newborn, RSV protection is one of the most important preventive steps you can take this winter.
FAQs About RSV Immunisation
Is receiving the RSV vaccine during pregnancy safe?
Indeed. Abrysvo is safe to use during pregnancy after undergoing extensive testing. It is safe and effective in reducing the risk of severe RSV illness in newborns.
Does my baby need both Abrysvo and nirsevimab?
No. If you received Abrysvo during pregnancy, your baby is likely already protected and will not require nirsevimab. Your doctor can help determine the best approach based on your baby’s age and risk.
What happens if I don’t qualify for the free immunizations?
If you’re not eligible for government-funded access, you may still be able to purchase the vaccine or antibody privately. Talk to our team about your options.
Book Today – RSV Season Has Already Begun
Now that RSV season has arrived, prompt prevention is essential. If you’re pregnant between 28–36 weeks, or the parent of an infant under 8 months, now is the time to act.
�� Come see us at the Northern Beaches and surrounding areas’ local healthcare provider, Balgowlah Village Medical Practice.
��Call now to schedule your appointment or learn more about RSV protection for you and your child.
Together, let’s make sure your child is content, safe, and healthy during winter.
