RSV vaccine: Error alert

The introduction of new vaccine products can increase the risk of vaccine administration errors. Immunisation providers must ensure that a vaccine is clinically appropriate for the patient prior to administration. Some potential errors include:

  • Error 1: Administration of Arexvy® in pregnant women instead of Abrysvo®
  • Error 2: Administration of Abrysvo® to infants instead of Beyfortus™
  • Error 3: Administration of NIP-funded Abrysvo® to adults instead of privately funded RSV vaccine.

Infant RSV immunisation

  • Beyfortus™ (nirsevimab) monoclonal antibody is registered for used in infants aged <24 months.
  • Funding: Beyfortus™ is funded by NSW Health for infants who meet the eligibility criteria.
  • Recommendation: A single dose of Beyfortus™ is recommended for infants who are not protected by maternal RSV vaccination, given before their 1st RSV season. Medically at-risk children are also recommended to receive Beyfortus™ before their 2nd RSV season (RSV season is typically April to September).

Eligible newborns will be offered Beyfortus™ in hospital under the NSW RSV Prevention Program. General practices can order Beyfortus™ where an eligible child has been missed in hospital or has not received 2nd RSV season dose in hospital. General practices are advised NOT to keep Beyfortus (nirsevimab) stock in their vaccine refrigerators.

Maternal RSV vaccine

  • Only Abrysvo® is registered for used in pregnant women.
  • Funding: Abrysvo® vaccine is NIP-funded for pregnant women.
  • Recommendation: A single dose of Abrysvo® given at 28 to 36 weeks gestation.

Adult RSV vaccine

  • Either Arexvy® or Abrysvo® is registered for use in adults aged 60 years and over.
  • Funding: Not funded for adults. Both Arexvy® or Abrysvo® are only available via private prescription.
  • Recommendation: A single dose of either Arexvy® or Abrysvo® for all adults aged ≥75 years, given before the start of the RSV season where possible.
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