RSV protection under NIP

RSV protection under NIP web image

From 3 February 2025, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine Abrysvo will be available under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for eligible pregnant women. Pharmacists can administer Abrysvo to pregnant women between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to reduce the risk of severe RSV disease in infants. The vaccine provides passive protection to the foetus during pregnancy by transferring RSV-specific antibodies through the placenta.

PDL highlights that while the product information for Abrysvo indicates vaccine administration between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends administering the vaccine between 28 and 36 weeks.

PDL reminds pharmacists that only Abrysvo is to be used in pregnant women. The Australian Immunisation Handbook outlines the RSV vaccine Arexvy is only indicated for use in patients 60 years and over and should not be administered to pregnant women.

Under the NIP Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) Program, participating pharmacies can claim payments for administering RSV vaccinations. PDL suggests that pharmacists familiarise themselves with the eligibility criteria of the NIPVIP Program.

Existing RSV protection services

In 2024, several states, including Queensland, Western Australia and New South Wales, commenced state-funded RSV protection programs. These programs have significantly reduced hospitalisations of infants due to respiratory tract infections caused by RSV.

Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), an antibody therapy administered to eligible infants for protection from RSV-related lower respiratory tract disease (before or during their first RSV season) is not currently included under the NIP.

Beyfortus is available to infants whose mothers did not receive RSV vaccination during pregnancy or who were vaccinated less than two weeks before delivery. Individual states and territories will support access to Beyfortus through hospitals, immunisation clinics and general practices.

Considerations for Abrysvo reconstitution

PDL would like to highlight that the reconstitution method for the Abrysvo vaccine may be unfamiliar to many pharmacists. We suggest that pharmacists planning to offer Abrysvo vaccinations in their pharmacies undertake adequate training and familiarise themselves with the vaccine’s reconstitution method. The manufacturer’s product information includes diagrammatic steps to assist with the preparation of the vaccine.

PDL tips for RSV NIPVIP services

  • The Abrysvo product information states the safety and efficacy of the vaccine have not been established in patients under 18 years of age. Referral of pregnant patients under 18 years to a general practitioner may be required.
  • Check your state and territory legislation regarding NIPVIP vaccines that pharmacists are authorised to administer.
  • Obtain valid consent from the patient prior to vaccination.
  • Provide patients with adequate counselling and the Consumer Medicines Information.
  • Remember to record all vaccinations on the patient’s immunisation record.
  • Consider separating Abrysvo vaccine stock from Arexvy stock in the pharmacy fridge to avoid accidental administration of Arexvy to pregnant women.
  • Consider other maternal vaccinations which may be administered at a similar gestational time. For example, pertussis vaccination is available under the NIP between 20-32 weeks of gestation.
  • The PDL Guide to Medicines by Injection and PDL Scope of Practice Checklist are available to support pharmacists and their teams to prepare for delivering a vaccination service in their pharmacy.

PDL supports the improved accessibility of federally funded RSV vaccination by community pharmacists through the NIPVIP Program. Before commencing any new service, pharmacists and proprietors should ensure that robust standard operating procedures are in place.


PDL members can call 1300 854 838 for advice and incident support from one of our Professional Officers. Supporting our pharmacist members 24/7.

Article last updated on 31 January 2025