News
2 December, 2024
Queensland expands free RSV immunisation for expectant mothers
The Crisafulli Government is investing up to $13.5 million to expand Queensland’s free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunisation program.
The Crisafulli Government is investing up to $13.5 million to expand Queensland’s free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) immunisation program. The initiative will now offer free RSV vaccines to pregnant mothers, providing newborns with protection against severe illness.
RSV is the leading cause of hospitalisation among infants and young children. The vaccine, Abrysvo, can be safely administered between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, shielding newborns from severe RSV disease for their first six months.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the expansion builds on the existing $31 million paediatric immunisation program.
“This year, Queensland has recorded over 39,400 RSV cases, with around 400 new cases each week,” he said.
Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said the program was already reducing infant hospitalisations, with 372 fewer cases this year compared to 2023.
The expanded RSV immunisation program will roll out ahead of the national program in 2025.
