RSV immunisation program cuts newborn hospital admissions across Australia

RSV immunisation program cuts newborn hospital admissions across Australia

15 May 2026

Australia’s RSV immunisation program has led to a major drop in hospital admissions among newborns, with early research showing hospitalisations in babies under three months fell by almost 44% in the program’s first year.

Researchers say the results highlight the strong impact of RSV prevention programs for pregnant women and young babies across Australia.

Launched in February 2025, the RSV Maternal and Infant Protection Program provides subsidised RSV vaccination for pregnant women from 28 weeks of pregnancy through the National Immunisation Program.

Babies who were not protected during pregnancy can also receive the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab through state and territory programs.

The study involved 13 hospitals around Australia and included more than 3700 children during 2025.

Early findings showed:

  • RSV-related hospital admissions dropped by 43.8% in babies younger than three months
  • Hospitalisations fell by 20.1% in infants aged 3–6 months
  • Admissions reduced by 8.5% in babies aged 6–12 months

Researchers also found babies whose mothers received the RSV vaccine were 80% less likely to need hospital treatment, while babies given nirsevimab were 90% less likely to be hospitalised.

Lead researcher Dr Ushma Wadia said the results show both maternal vaccination and infant immunisation are highly effective in protecting babies against RSV.

RACGP Specific Interests Child and Young Person’s Health Chair Dr Tim Jones described the reduction in severe RSV illness as a significant achievement for child health and family wellbeing.

He said GPs play an important role in making sure pregnant women and parents understand the benefits of RSV protection, especially heading into winter when infections increase.

Health experts say RSV remains one of the leading causes of hospital admissions in young infants, placing pressure on families and hospitals each winter season.

Researchers will continue monitoring the program to better understand long-term protection and future RSV trends across Australia.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: newsGP / National RSV research program
 

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