First Kimberley baby receives life-saving RSV immunisation

WA Country Health Service’s (WACHS) Broome Health Campus has delivered the Kimberley’s first immunisation against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) under the State Government’s new program.

New mum Jayedene Green was keen to ensure baby Sandie was fully protected against RSV, which is a common cause of serious coughs and colds – particularly in infants and young children – during the winter months.

Jayedene, from Junjuwa community, said she was extremely proud that Sandie was the first baby in the Kimberley immunised under the program and wanted to spread the word to new parents in the region.

WA Country Health Service Executive Director Clinical Excellence Dr Helen Van Gessel said it was important communities were aware of how serious RSV could be for babies and young children.

In WA, more than 65 per cent of infants in WA are affected by RSV during their first year,” Dr Van Gessel said.

“It’s particularly important for those under six months of age, who are most at risk.”

Dr Van Gessel said RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalisation in Australia.

“We see around 1200 babies in WA needing to be hospitalised each year, so it’s really important for parents to get behind this immunisation program to help keep their little ones out of hospital.”

All babies born from 1 October 2023 have access to the RSV immunisation through participating GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and community health clinics.

Aboriginal children and those considered at high risk due to pre-existing medical conditions born from 1 October 2022 will also be offered the immunisation while new babies born between 1 May and 30 September 2024 will be able to receive the RSV immunisation in hospital.

The free immunisation program runs until 30 September.