RSV immunisation for bubs (Nirsevimab) fact sheet

  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes an illness that is like the flu.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander bubs can get very sick from RSV. They have to be in hospital for RSV two times more often than other babies.
  • For information about RSV, see the RSV fact sheet.
  • For information about the RSV pregnancy vaccine, see the RSV pregnancy vaccination (Abrysvo) fact sheet.
Last updated: 31 January 2025
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​What is the RSV immunisation for bubs?

The RSV immunisation for bubs is called nirsevimab. The RSV immunisation is a pre- made antibody given as an needle to bubs at birth that helps fight RSV straight away.

This is different to a vaccine, which teaches the immune system to make its own antibodies in about two weeks.

What does the RSV immunisation do?

RSV immunisation is free and protects bubs from serious RSV illness for at least 5 months.

Studies show that the RSV immunisation lowers the chance of a bub needing to be in hospital for RSV by more than 80%.

Should my bub have the RSV immunisation?

Some bubs may need extra protection with the RSV immunisation if the mother was not vaccinated in pregnancy or they are born with a medical condition that makes them more likely to get very sick from RSV. The RSV immunisation is given in the hospital where your bub is born or from an Aboriginal medical service. It is given as a needle.

Your doctor or midwife will talk to you if your bub needs the RSV immunisation when they are born.

Can my bub have the RSV immunisation with other childhood vaccines?

Yes, the RSV immunisation can be given at the same time as other vaccines.

If your bub needs the RSV immunisation at birth, it can be given along with the hepatitis B vaccine and vitamin K injection, which are usually offered to bubs when they are born.

Can my bub get sick from the RSV immunisation?

No, the RSV immunisation does not have the RSV virus, and it cannot cause RSV illness.

Most bubs have no side effects. If side effects do occur, they are usually mild and may include:

  • pain or redness in the area where the needle was given
  • swelling and hardness on the skin where the needle was given
  • rash and fever.

If you are worried about side effects, speak to:

  • your nurse, doctor or paediatrician
  • healthdirect by calling 1800 022 222.

In an emergency, call triple zero (000) or go to your nearest emergency department.

Where will my child’s immunisation be recorded?

Your child’s RSV immunisation will be recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

You can see their immunisation record through logging into your Medicare account in MyGov.

More information

To learn more:


Current as at: Friday 31 January 2025
Contact page owner: Immunisation