PREGNANT MUMS’ PROTECTION FROM RSV

From February, pregnant women across Macquarie will be eligible for a free vaccine to protect them and their babies from RSV.

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said from 3 February, the more than 1600 babies born in the electorate each year will have access to world-leading protection from RSV.

The respiratory syncytial virus causes cold-like symptoms for many people, but the young are very vulnerable to its effects.

“Without the subsidy, women could expect to pay $300 for the vaccine,” Ms Templeman said.

“Thanks to the Albanese Government adding the RSV vaccine to the National Immunisation Program, pregnant women will now have access to this important protection for their babies for free at 28 to 36 weeks pregnant, to protect their newborn babies from serious illness,” Ms Templeman said.

"RSV is the biggest driver of hospitalisation of babies and infants in Australia, with around 12,000 babies every year, hospitalised primarily during winter,” Ms Templeman said.

“The vaccine — combined with the RSV jabs given to eligible infants after birth — could significantly reduce the number of infants who get very sick from RSV each year.

"The maternal vaccine and the vaccine for newborns, could reduce hospitalisations by as much as 10,000 which is peace of mind for parents and a big reduction to the pressure hospitals face.

“The Royal College of GPs say pregnant women currently see their GP for a vaccine to protect them from whooping cough at around 30 weeks into their pregnancy, and the RSV vaccine will be available around the same time.

"RSV must be taken very seriously, and I’d encourage all pregnant women to talk to their GP about getting this free vaccine once its available,” Ms Templeman said.

“To ensure that every single Australian baby is protected, in addition to supporting vaccine coverage, the Australian Government has worked with all States and Territories to support national access to the monoclonal antibody, Beyfortus ™, which provides direct protection to newborns and young children.”

ENDS