The 2024 Annual Australian Respiratory Surveillance Report tells a very disheartening story. It paints a bleak picture of a spike in RSV across all age groups, particularly vulnerable older Australians. The report shows that older adults are 12 times more likely to die from RSV than younger adults. This shocking information comes at a time when we are experiencing an extraordinary increase in RSV activity. Since RSV became a notifiable disease in 2021, the NDSS has reported a record-breaking 175,914 cases in 2024.
Generally, RSV season lasts from May through September. We’re already experiencing its impact long before such dates. From January through April 2024, public health officials reported 56,303 RSV cases. That’s up from 40,380 cases in the same time frame last year. So far this year, we’ve reported more than 49,000 such cases. New South Wales is far out in front, accounting for over half of these positives. All states and territories are seeing increasing RSV infections.
Vaccine Availability and Government Initiatives
To counter the increase in cases, the Australian government has taken bold steps with its vaccination campaign. The Abrysvo RSV vaccine is available now, with at least one major pharmacy chain advertising a dose for more than $330. On February 3 of this year, the government launched a $174.5 million initiative to provide free RSV vaccinations for pregnant women. This program is intended to strengthen maternal and infant health while RSV continues to be an increasingly dangerous viral respiratory infection.
To that end, we commend the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) for their significant recommendation. They’re seeking to increase the access to free Abrysvo RSV vaccine for all adults aged 75 and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 60 and over. This recommendation is a reflection of the increasing understanding of this vaccine’s critical role in fighting RSV.
“Coming into the winter months it makes a tremendous difference in keeping people healthier because the severity of the condition is a lot less,” – Dr Ramya Raman, RACGP vice-president.
Eligible infants and young children can further access the Nirsevimab immunisation, under the brand name Beyfortus, for free through state-funded Aboriginal Medical Services and the National Immunisation Program. This vaccine offers immediate, on-the-ground protection against RSV for up to six months by directly introducing two monoclonal antibodies into infants.
Impact of Vaccination on Infection Rates
This is partly a result of bringing new RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, like nirsevimab, to market, which has led to decreasing case rates. Dr. Ramya Raman, vice-president of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), articulated the conflict priorities seen between these vaccines. In particular, she underscored their proven benefits.
“The RSV vaccine has already been a gamechanger for the community,” – Dr Ramya Raman.
Dr. Raman stressed the vaccine’s demonstrated effectiveness at preventing infections and hospitalizations. This success is a tremendous opportunity to build on this success and expand even further. She is raising awareness of the need for wider access, so that more vulnerable populations can be protected against RSV.
While progress has been made, challenges continue to persist. We need to surge past them before the Abrysvo vaccine can be listed under Australia’s National Immunisation Program (NIP). Unlike the USA, I have previously outlined the steps that are necessary to make it go right.
“Other steps need to be completed before a vaccine can be given final approval for NIP listing,” – Department of Health, Disability and Ageing spokesperson.
These processes involve negotiations with pharmaceutical companies, finalisation of listing conditions and quality checks, all before passing to government for consideration.
The Urgency of Addressing RSV
RSV can cause serious disease for older adults as well as infants and young children. Public health officials are sounding alarm bells and calling for public action to address this contributing factor. The growing number of successful cases demonstrates the need for greater action to defend vulnerable communities around Australia.
Beyond the immediate impact on their pipelines, economic factors are a central consideration in vaccine access. According to the Department of Health spokesperson, “Economic inputs should be revised for Abrysvo to become cost-effective before it can be accepted for NIP listing.”
Authorities are still examining the PBAC outcome and consulting further with vaccine sponsors on next steps. At the same time, health professionals are making a strong case for action right now. Dr. Raman acknowledged the ubiquity of RSV and emphasized the success of vaccinations in use today.
“Given how common this condition is and the effectiveness of the vaccinations it would be wonderful to see this within the schedule,” – Dr. Ramya Raman.
