Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Western Sydney is tracking high again in 2026, with more than 5,000 cases already reported by May, signalling an early and sustained season and reinforcing the need for strong primary care readiness.
New local data show RSV notifications have remained elevated since becoming notifiable in September 2022, rising sharply from 601 cases in late 2022 to 12,829 cases in 2025.
Clinicians should anticipate continued heavy demand through winter.
As a highly contagious virus that infects the respiratory tract, RSV is now a major, predictable contributor to winter respiratory demand in Western Sydney. With 2026 already showing strong early transmission, GPs play a frontline role in:
- Identifying high-risk patients early
- Managing community cases effectively
- Preventing avoidable hospital presentations
GPs in Western Sydney are being urged to act early to manage the expected surge.
Lean into Prevention Conversations
With high community transmission already evident, now is the time to:
- Discuss RSV prevention options where relevant
- Reinforce infection control (hand hygiene, staying home when unwell)
- Protect vulnerable household contacts
There are two ways to protect babies against severe RSV:
- Maternal RSV vaccination (Abrysvo) – a vaccine given to a mother from 28 weeks of pregnancy so she can develop and pass protective antibodies to her baby, providing protection for up to 6 months after birth.
- Infant RSV immunisation (Beyfortus or nirsevimab) – ready‑made antibodies that offer same‑day protection against severe RSV. One injection offers protection for infants throughout a typical RSV season.
Babies can receive RSV protection by either options: if a mother has not received RSV vaccine at least two weeks before birth, infant immunisation is recommended. Sometimes both maternal and infant immunisation may be recommended.
As part of RSV awareness week, the Immunisation Foundation of Australia has developed a website that provides a range of educational resources, including fact sheets, posters and flyers, as well as a discussion guide to support healthcare professionals explain the importance of RSV protection to their patients.
Immunisation Handbook Update: Maternal Vaccination
The RSV chapter of the Australian Immunisation Handbook has been updated to reflect the latest advice for maternal RSV immunisation with Abrysvo.
The recommended time for RSV vaccination during pregnancy is now “from 28 weeks gestation”. In addition, vaccination is recommended during each pregnancy, including pregnancies that are closely spaced.
To explore the available resources, visit the website here.
Full details on recommendations for maternal RSV protection for infants are available in the Immunisation Handbook.