- Walk-in serviceWeekdays in store hours, while a pharmacist immuniser is available
- From 28 weeks of pregnancyAbrysvo is the RSV vaccine approved for pregnant women
- One doseA single injection, not a yearly course
What respiratory syncytial virus does
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common, highly contagious virus that infects the airways and lungs. It spreads through droplets from talking, coughing or sneezing, and it can live on surfaces for several hours.
Protecting a baby before birth
The maternal RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, is funded through the National Immunisation Program and recommended at 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. Your body makes antibodies in the couple of weeks after the injection, and these cross the placenta to guard your baby for up to 6 months from birth.
The Australian Immunisation Handbook notes that babies born less than 2 weeks after the vaccine are unlikely to be adequately protected, so it encourages having it by the end of 36 weeks. A dose is recommended in each pregnancy, and it can be given on the same day as your whooping cough vaccine or a flu shot.
Some infants need their own protection instead: a monoclonal antibody called nirsevimab, which NSW provides free to eligible babies. It is not on the list of products NSW pharmacist immunisers can administer, so ask your midwife, hospital or GP about it.
RSV protection for older adults
The NIP funds the vaccine for adults aged 75 years and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over. There is no funded dose for people aged 60 to 74 or for those with medical risk conditions, although you can pay for one privately.
In NSW, pharmacists can give Arexvy to people aged 50 to 59 who are at increased risk of RSV disease, and either Arexvy or Abrysvo to anyone 60 or older. The Handbook recommends a single dose, says protection lasts for at least 2 years, and has not yet established a need for further doses. Where possible, have it before the start of the RSV season.
Having your RSV vaccine in Abermain
Come to the counter and ask for the RSV vaccine. The pharmacist reviews your age or stage of pregnancy, allergies and health history, gives the injection, then asks you to stay for at least 15 minutes, in line with the Handbook's after-vaccination guidance. The dose goes onto the Australian Immunisation Register.
Please bring: valid ID, a Medicare card if you have one, and your vaccination history.
Not every provider offers the free maternal vaccine, and the Department of Health suggests checking whether a consultation or service fee applies. Call us on (02) 4930 4442 to check both before you come in.
Afterwards, some people have pain and redness where the needle went in, fatigue, headache or muscle pains. These are generally mild and last only a couple of days.
RSV vaccine questions
Can an older adult have RSV and flu vaccines together?
Yes. The Handbook says older adults can receive RSV vaccines at the same time as, or separately from, flu, COVID-19, shingles and pneumococcal vaccines. Reactions such as a sore arm or tiredness are a little more likely when vaccines are combined, so some people prefer separate visits.
Who should not have an RSV vaccine?
Anyone who has had anaphylaxis after a previous dose of the same RSV vaccine, or after any of its ingredients. Mention any past reaction to the pharmacist before your injection.
Planning other vaccines? Our vaccinations in Abermain page lists them all.
Get RSV protection this season
Our door at 193 Cessnock Road is open for walk-ins every weekday. Pregnant and not sure of your dates? Bring your pregnancy details and the pharmacist will confirm the timing.