Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
In Australia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), causing bronchiolitis, is the most frequent cause of hospitalisation in children under 12 months old.� Every year approximately 6000 infants need care at the hospital.�
Infants account for 80% of all hospitalisation related to RSV.�
Respiratory syncytial virus season is generally between March to September, peaking between April and July.�
A new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) monoclonal antibody (mAB), Beyfortus (nirsevimab), was made available in Australia in early 2024.� Beyfortus is not a vaccination, it is an immunisation.  �
The immunisation is approved for use in:�
- neonates and infants entering or born during their first RSV season (March to September)  �
- children under 24 months old who remain vulnerable to severe RSV through their second RSV season.�
Beyfortus is used for protection against RSV and has been shown to decrease the risk of hospitalisation for severe RSV in infants and children.� Beyfortus protects infants and children for approximately 5 months, equivalent to one RSV season.�