At Western Obstetrics, we know how much every expecting parent wants to give their baby the best possible start in life. That’s why we’re proud to support and offer the maternal RSV vaccine, now available for women between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
Why is RSV a Concern?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause severe respiratory illness in infants, especially during their first winter. While most people recover from RSV with mild, cold-like symptoms, babies under 6 months of age are at greater risk of complications, hospitalisation, and long-term breathing issues like wheezing and asthma.
How the Maternal RSV Vaccine Works
The RSV maternal vaccine (Abrysvo) is given during late pregnancy and works by passing protective antibodies through the placenta to your baby. These antibodies help protect your newborn against severe RSV illness from birth through their first six months of life.
This is a safe and effective way to shield your baby during their most vulnerable stage — before they’re old enough to receive most vaccines themselves.
The Benefits of Maternal RSV Vaccination
- Passive immunity for your baby from birth
- Reduced risk of severe RSV-related illness or hospitalisation
- Works alongside other routine antenatal vaccines (e.g. flu and whooping cough)
- Administered as a single-dose vaccine during pregnancy
Book Through Western Obstetrics
The team at Western Obstetrics can organise your maternal RSV vaccination right here in the clinic.
Simply speak with your Midwife or GP Obstetrician at your next appointment or contact our admin team to book it in. The vaccine is best given at 32 weeks to allow time for antibody transfer, so don’t delay if you’re in the window!
Missed the Maternal Vaccine? Baby May Still Be Eligible
If the RSV vaccine wasn’t given during pregnancy — or if you were vaccinated less than two weeks before delivery — your newborn may still be eligible for a special infant RSV immunisation called nirsevimab (Beyfortus).
This long-acting antibody injection is available as part of WA Health’s program for babies born after 1 October 2024, especially those entering their first RSV season. It’s also used for babies in higher-risk categories (such as prematurity or specific medical conditions).
At present, our clinic does not have sufficient stock to offer infant RSV immunisation, but we will advise our patient families as soon as supply is secured and the service becomes available at Western Obstetrics.
In the meantime, please speak to your child health nurse, or check with WA Health immunisation services for other local providers.
Your Baby’s Health Starts with You
At Western Obstetrics, we’re here to support you through every stage of pregnancy and early parenthood. The maternal RSV vaccine is just one more way we can help protect your little one from the very beginning.
📞 Call us on 9328 0501 or
📅 Book your appointment online using the “Book Appointment” button at the top of the page.
Let’s give your baby the healthiest start possible.