RSV in Western Australia: A record-chasing season despite high immunisation uptake
Western Australia is approaching a potential record year for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, even as a broad immunisation program for infants and pregnant women helps blunt severe outcomes. Health authorities report 11,551 RSV notifications up to Monday, just 104 cases shy of the record set in 2022 and well above the 2024 total of 9,725. The trend underscores a complex moment: more infections are circulating, but hospitalisations among the youngest children are not rising in step, a sign that vaccination efforts are working where it matters most.
The role of immunisation in protecting infants
RSV is particularly tough on children under five, and the youngest group—especially those under two—bears the brunt. Dr. Ushma Wadia, an infectious diseases clinician researcher at The KIDS Institute, notes a paradox: higher RSV notifications, yet fewer hospital admissions. “We’re seeing more RSV notifications, but fewer children are being hospitalised, likely reflecting the protection provided by maternal RSV vaccination and nirsevimab for infants,” she said.
In WA, families now have two main protective strategies against RSV: a free infant RSV immunisation program and a vaccination for pregnant women. The infant program commenced in 2024, and this year’s program extended to expectant mothers, aiming to shield babies from birth through the first six months of life. By October 5, more than 23,200 infants and pregnant women had received protection—up 263 on the previous year.
What the data suggests about transmission and severity
Nearly half of RSV cases involve children under five, underscoring the virus’s impact on the youngest cohort. Dr. Wadia emphasises that there is still much to understand about community transmission dynamics. The ongoing PATROL study at The Kids Institute is exploring how RSV spreads to refine prevention strategies and reduce case numbers where possible.
RSV vs. influenza: different trajectories this season
As RSV shows signs of fatigue in fewer hospitalisations, influenza is reaching a different peak. Weekend reporting pushed flu cases in WA over 30,000—the third time this has happened since records began in 2001. The latest figures exceed the 2024 annual total by more than 13,000 cases, with influenza still circulating as the RSV season wanes. Health experts expect influenza to decline gradually, though holiday-related travel and school breaks may cause temporary upticks.
Public health implications and recommendations
The picture is nuanced: vaccination remains a central tool in reducing severe illness and hospital demand, even when total case numbers rise. Five lives have been lost to RSV this year, including an elderly patient in their 80s, reminding us that vulnerable groups remain at risk despite immunisation efforts.
Public health officials continue to advocate for vaccination, especially for pregnant women and infants, and encourage timely influenza vaccination as the season progresses. Dr. Wadia also highlights the value of ongoing surveillance through PATROL to adapt strategies in real time and minimise severe outcomes among children.
Key takeaways
- RSV is reaching a record-like level in WA, even with high immunisation uptake.
- Infant and maternal vaccination appears to be reducing hospitalisations among the youngest children.
- Influenza cases have surged higher than previous years and may fluctuate with school holidays.
- Continued vaccination and surveillance are critical to protecting vulnerable populations.
What you can do now
If you or your child are in a high-risk group, consult your healthcare provider about RSV and flu vaccination options. For families with newborns and pregnant individuals, confirm eligibility for the free infant RSV immunisation and maternal vaccination programs in WA. Staying up to date with vaccines, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding crowded spaces during peak season can help reduce transmission and protect the most at-risk members of the community.
