November 9th 2024.
The federal government has announced a new nationwide immunisation program that will provide free vaccinations against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for pregnant mothers and newborns. Health Minister Mark Butler has stated that children under two years old will be eligible for the jab, especially during the winter months when RSV outbreaks are most common.
The vaccine, also known as Beyfortus, will be readily available through hospitals, immunisation clinics, and general practitioners. In addition, expectant mothers will have access to a free maternal RSV vaccine called Abrysv. This is a significant relief for parents as RSV vaccinations can typically cost up to $300, while gestational immunisation can go up to $325.
The program, which is set to launch in 2025, has a budget of $174.5 million and is expected to prevent approximately 10,000 babies from being admitted to the hospital due to RSV-related illnesses. Minister Butler has expressed his excitement about this initiative and the positive impact it will have on the health of both mothers and babies.
During an interview on Today, Butler stated that all pregnant mothers will be able to receive the vaccine free of charge starting next winter. He also mentioned that the vaccine will have a significant impact on the health of babies, which is a major win for mothers. Women will have the option to either take the Abrysv vaccine during pregnancy or have their newborn vaccinated with Beyfortus.
Butler also shared that they anticipate about 80% of women will opt for the vaccine, similar to the rate for whooping cough vaccinations. The process is a simple injection, and it is expected to significantly reduce the number of RSV cases in infants.
RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can lead to lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, which can be life-threatening for babies. Every year, at least 12,000 children under 12 months old are admitted to the hospital due to severe cases of RSV.
Dr Desiree Anthony, the RSV Medical Lead for Sanofi ANZ, has welcomed the news and commended Minister Butler and his state and territory counterparts for their leadership in ensuring that all babies in all postcodes have access to RSV protection next winter. She believes that this preventative health milestone will greatly benefit parents in keeping their babies healthy.
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