RSV: What every parent should know before winter

News
May 20, 2025

As the cooler months roll in, so does the risk of respiratory illnesses – and one of the biggest concerns for parents of young children is Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV. Here's some important information you need to know...

What is RSV?

RSV is a common virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages. While people of all ages can catch it, it’s especially serious for babies and young children – particularly those under six months or with existing heart or lung conditions.

In Australia, RSV is the leading cause of hospital admissions for babies each winter, with about 12,000 infants hospitalised each year. It’s also the most frequent cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies under one.

Almost all children will catch RSV at least once before their second birthday – and while most recover with mild symptoms, some little ones can become very sick.

When is RSV most common and how does it spread?

In South Australia, the RSV season typically runs from 1 April to 30 September, with cases peaking during winter. At the height of the season, about 700 cases are reported to SA Health each week.

RSV spreads through droplets from coughing, sneezing or talking. It can also be picked up by touching contaminated surfaces like toys or doorknobs – especially if a child then touches their nose, eyes or mouth.

Signs and symptoms

RSV often causes a mild to moderate cold-like illness, but can lead to more severe symptoms in babies and vulnerable children. Common symptoms include:

Runny nose or nasal congestion
Cough
Fever
Sore throat
Ear infections

Babies under 6 months may have more serious signs, such as:

Wheezing or noisy breathing
Difficulty breathing
Feeding poorly
Unusual irritability

Important note: If your baby has trouble breathing, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

How is RSV treated?

There’s no specific treatment for RSV. As it’s a virus, antibiotics won’t help. Most children recover at home with rest, fluids, and comfort – but some may need to be hospitalised if symptoms worsen.

Protecting your child

You can help lower the risk of RSV by practising good hygiene and taking a few simple steps:

Wash hands regularly and thoroughly
Keep sick siblings and visitors away from your baby
Don’t share cups, dummies, or toys
Stay home when you or your child are unwell
Always cough or sneeze into a tissue or elbow, bin used tissues straight away, and wash hands

What to know about RSV immunisation

Good news – there are now free RSV immunisations available to protect babies and vulnerable groups:

For pregnant mums:

If you’re 28 weeks or more pregnant, you can get a free RSV vaccine under the National Immunisation Program. This helps pass antibodies to your baby before birth, offering protection from day one. It can reduce the risk of serious RSV illness and hospitalisation by up to 70%.

For babies and young children:

Babies whose mothers didn’t get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy – and some children under 2 who are at higher risk – may be eligible for a free infant RSV immunisation. This is available under a state-funded program from 1 April to 30 September 2025, and offers protection within a few days of receiving it.

Talk to your GP

With RSV cases rising each winter, it’s best to act early. Speak to your GP or immunisation provider about eligibility and getting your child protected.

For more info, visit: www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/rsv