by dr georgia page, GP at your family doctors, erina
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory infection that primarily affects young children, but it can impact adults too. While many cases of RSV are mild, it can cause serious health problems, particularly in babies, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Understanding RSV and the measures available to prevent and manage it is essential for parents and caregivers.
What is RSV?
RSV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It typically affects the lungs and airways and is known to cause symptoms similar to the common cold, such as a runny nose, cough, and mild fever. However, it can also lead to more serious illnesses like bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) or pneumonia, especially in vulnerable groups such as babies under one year of age.
In fact, RSV is responsible for a significant number of hospitalisations and even deaths among young children. It is estimated that one in 50 deaths in children under five is linked to RSV. While adults can get RSV too, it’s older adults, especially those over the age of 65, who are more likely to experience severe symptoms. Around 300,000 people in this age group are hospitalised annually due to RSV complications.
Symptoms of RSV
RSV can manifest in different ways, depending on the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Cyanosis (a bluish or greyish colour of the skin, especially around the lips or fingertips).
For most children, RSV causes mild cold–like symptoms, but in severe cases, it can lead to more significant respiratory issues. Babies under one year of age are particularly susceptible to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which can lead to hospitalisation and intensive medical care.
Preventing RSV
RSV spreads quickly, especially during the cooler months of autumn and winter, when cases in New South Wales (NSW) are most common. The virus can remain contagious for up to 10 days, which makes it essential for parents to take precautions to protect their children, particularly those under one year of age.
Here are some tips to prevent the spread of RSV:
- Stay home when sick and avoid contact with others, especially young children.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing – use your elbow or a tissue, not your hands.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitiser when out and about.
- Wear a mask where possible to prevent transmission.
- Keep sick family members away from babies and young children.
Vaccinations for RSV.
Vaccination is an important tool in reducing the severity of RSV, especially for vulnerable populations like pregnant women, babies, and older adults.
RSV vaccine for pregnant women
Expecting mothers can now help protect their babies from RSV through a vaccine called Abrysvo®. This vaccine is given during pregnancy, ideally between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation. By receiving the vaccine, pregnant women create antibodies that help protect their babies from RSV in their first months of life—when they are most vulnerable.
Studies have shown that babies born to mothers who received Abrysvo® are 70 percent less likely to require hospitalization due to RSV in their first six months. This vaccine became available for free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) in February 2025. If you’re pregnant, speak with your GP or maternity care provider about receiving this vaccine to help ensure the health and safety of your baby.
RSV Immunisation for babies
For babies at high risk of severe RSV illness, there is an important new immunisation called Beyfortus (nirsevimab), a monoclonal antibody treatment. This vaccine provides immediate protection against RSV by delivering ready–made antibodies directly to the baby, offering protection for at least five months after a single dose. Beyfortus has been shown to be around 80 percent effective in preventing hospitalizations due to RSV.
Under the NSW RSV Prevention Program, Beyfortus will be given to babies born on or after March 17, 2025, who have mothers who either didn’t receive the Abrysvo® vaccine or received it less than two weeks before delivery. It will also be given to babies born with medical conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness from RSV. Beyfortus is available for free for eligible babies, and it’s important to discuss with your doctor whether your child should receive it.
RSV Vaccine for older adults
The RSV vaccine Arexvy is also available for adults aged 60 years and older, particularly those who are at higher risk of severe RSV illness due to pre–existing health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or compromised immunity. The vaccine is recommended for individuals over the age of 75 and for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over. This vaccine is presently not government funded and costs approximately $315. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about Arexvy and whether it’s right for you.
Treatment of RSV
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV. In most cases, RSV can be managed at home with supportive care, including:
- Ensuring the child gets plenty of rest
- Offering fluids, such as breast milk or formula for babies.
- Using paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever or discomfort.
- Antibiotics are ineffective against RSV since it is caused by a virus.
- Recovery can take up to 8 to 15 days.
If symptoms become severe, such as difficulty breathing, dehydration, or bluish skin around the lips or fingertips, immediate medical attention should be sought by calling emergency services or visiting the hospital.
The bottom line
RSV can be a serious illness for babies, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, but preventive measures, including good hygiene practices, vaccinations for pregnant women, eligible babies and older adults, can make a significant difference.
As we move through RSV season, it’s essential to stay informed and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you’re unsure about what vaccinations or immunizations might be right for you or your baby, speak to your healthcare provider for advice.
Dr Georgia Page enjoys all aspects of general practice and has been working at Your Family Doctors at Erina for the past 12 years. The practice has a fabulous team and they pride themselves on delivering good quality health care, with that special personal touch. For more information call 4365 4999, check the website www.yourfamilydoctors.com.au or like them on Facebook.
Resources – https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/respiratory-syncytial-virus.aspx