The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has thrown its support behind South Australia's infant RSV immunisation program.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Following the Federal Government announcing a free maternal RSV vaccine for pregnant women to protect their baby under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the Malinauskas Government is now offering free long-acting RSV immunisations for:
infants less than eight months of age whose mothers were not vaccinated at least two weeks before delivery, or who are at increased risk of severe disease
children under two with high-risk health conditions,such as premature babies born before 32 weeks, significant immunosuppression or chronic lung disease.
RACGP South Australia Chair, Dr Sian Goodson, urged families to act now.
"This immunisation program will save lives," she said.
"Some families may not realise how serious this virus can be. For many patients, the symptoms are usually relatively mild and manageable; however, some people can suffer severe effects and require hospitalisation. Last year, more than 175,000 RSV cases were recorded nationwide, a significant rise from 129,944 cases the year before. In South Australia, 1,969 babies under one contracted RSV and 350 of them were hospitalised, a terrifying experience for any family to go through.
"Sadly, it's young children, including babies, who are most vulnerable with around half of RSV notifications in kids aged under five. Almost all infants will experience an RSV infection, and the number one thing you can do to help keep your child as safe as possible is to make sure they're vaccinated. At a time of high cost-of-living pressures, it's vital to remind families that this vaccine, as well as the vaccine for pregnant Mums, are both completely free of charge.
"So, please spread the word to people in your life about this new vaccination program. GPs are mindful that new parents have a lot on their minds, but ensuring your children are vaccinated against RSV is one of the best decisions you can make."
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