RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) might sound like just another childhood bug, but for some little ones, it can cause serious illness – especially during the colder months. Here’s what to look for, when to act, and how to reduce your baby’s risk.
What is RSV?
RSV is a very common and highly contagious virus that affects the lungs and airways. Most children will catch RSV before they turn two.
For many kids, RSV shows up like a cold – a runny nose, mild cough, maybe a fever. But for babies (especially those under six months), RSV can quickly become more serious.
When RSV becomes more than “just a cold”
RSV is the leading cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways) and pneumonia (lung infection) in babies. Each winter, around 12,000 babies in Australia are admitted to hospital with RSV-related illness.Babies at the highest risk of severe illness include those under 6 months old and children with heart, lung or immune conditions.
Watch for these symptoms
Mild RSV symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Runny or blocked nose
- Nasal congestion
- Ear infections
- Wheezing
But don’t ignore more serious signs. Seek medical care if your baby shows:
- Breathing difficulties
- Irritability or trouble settling
- Poor feeding or refusing to feed
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Fewer wet nappies than usual.
When to act
If your baby is struggling to breathe, feed, or seems unusually tired or floppy:
- Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a nurse 24/7.
- In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or head to your nearest emergency department.
If your baby is under 6 months or has a health condition, don’t wait for things to get worse. It’s always better to check in with a health professional early.
Why RSV can be dangerous for babies
Here’s why this virus can hit babies so hard:
- Babies breathe through their noses, so a blocked nose can make it hard to breathe and feed at the same time.
- RSV can cause inflammation and thick mucus in the small airways, making it difficult to get enough oxygen.
- In severe cases, babies may need hospital care with oxygen, IV fluids, or other support.
How to prevent the spread
- Wash hands often – especially after wiping noses, before feeding, or coming home from public places.
- Cover sneezes and coughs with your elbow or a tissue (then bin it and wash hands).
- Don’t share cups, bottles or utensils — especially if someone is sick.
- Keep unwell siblings or visitors away from your baby.
- If your child is unwell, keep them home from school or childcare.
Vaccination: the best defence this winter
Good news for 2025! Free RSV immunisations are now available to help protect babies.
Pregnant women can now receive the RSV vaccine from 28 weeks, passing protective antibodies to their baby through the placenta. This can reduce the risk of serious RSV illness by up to 70%.
If the vaccine was unable to be given during pregnancy, some babies may still be eligible for RSV immunisation after birth – available now through 30 September 2025.
Babies and young children less than 2 years of age with certain medical conditions may also qualify for this protection.
RSV immunisation is safe and can be given alongside other routine childhood vaccinations.
Want to learn more or check your eligibility?
Chat with your GP or immunisation provider to find out what’s best for your family and to book an appointment.
For more info, visit: sahealth.sa.gov.au/rsv
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