RSV rate among babies drops dramatically

AMA Queensland has welcomed the news that Queensland’s free RSV immunisation program has significantly reduced hospitalisations of babies in its first five months.

The dramatic decline comes despite a surge in RSV cases across the state, with more than 34,500 cases reported this year.

Of the 364 children under six months hospitalised with RSV since the program’s launch in April 2024, only eight had been immunised. Of the 692 aged between six months and two years, only seven were immunised.

“As soon as this immunisation became available in Australia early this year, we called for free access to keep babies healthy and out of hospital,” AMA Queensland President Dr Nick Yim said.

“We were incredibly pleased that the Government acted so quickly.

“RSV is the main cause of hospitalisations for children aged five and under. We are confident this free rollout will change that statistic, and these latest figures are positive.

“For parents, watching a baby or young child struggling to breathe is terrifying. This immunisation is helping prevent that.

“The cost barrier to keep up with all the recommended vaccinations and immunisations for children is a challenge for so many families, and this free access ensures all parents can prioritise their baby’s health.”

The program has been particularly effective in reducing the risk of RSV among children under six months, the highest-risk group.

The number of babies in this age group diagnosed with RSV plummeted from 108 in the week ending 14 April 2024 to 12 in the week ending 9 September 2024.

Consequently, the risk of RSV in children under six months is now comparable to that of older children, who are at a much lower risk.

As of 12 September, more than 46,000 doses of beyfortus (nirsevimab) had been distributed to 79 hospitals, 794 primary care providers and 109 other providers.