Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infections.
  • While it affects people of all ages, infants and young children are most frequently affected.
  • Infants and older adults are most at risk of serious illness.
  • It occurs more frequently in autumn and winter.
  • Most people have mild to moderate illness that self-resolves.
  • Infants and people with pre-existing heart or lung problems or a weakened immune system have a higher risk of serious illness.
  • It can spread from person-to-person so good hand washing, respiratory hygiene and cleaning practices are important in preventing RSV.
  • Call an ambulance or go to your nearest hospital emergency department if your child is turning blue, having trouble breathing, or is breathing very quickly.
  • Vaccination to protect people aged 60 years and older from severe illness due to RSV is available. Speak to your GP or pharmacist.
  • The RSV vaccine is not funded under the National Immunisation Program.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 04-10-2024