RSVpreF maternal vaccine for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants

Published on 05 Oct 2026
Last Updated on 05 Oct 2026

Guidance Recommendations

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Advisory Committee has not recommended RSVpreF maternal vaccine for inclusion on the MOH Subsidised Vaccine List (SVL) for active immunisation of pregnant individuals at 32 through 36 weeks’ gestation to prevent respiratory syncytial virus-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants from birth through six months of age. The decision was based on the unfavourable cost effectiveness of RSVpreF compared with no immunisation.

RSVpreF maternal vaccine for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants (Published 5 Oct 2026) [PDF, 175.67 KB] (opens in new tab)

Plain English Summary

Lower respiratory tract disease occurs when there is an infection in the lungs or the airways. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of this type of infection in children under two years old. RSV spreads in a similar way to the common cold, through droplets from sneezing or coughing, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. It usually causes mild symptoms, but it can sometimes lead to more serious illness when it infects the lungs (pneumonia), large airways (bronchitis) or small airways (bronchiolitis).

RSV is highly contagious and most children have an RSV infection by the age of two. A child’s first RSV infection is often the most severe. Symptoms of more serious illness can include coughing, wheezing, reduced appetite, irritability, shortness of breath and fever. Babies who are born prematurely, have certain lung or heart diseases, or have a weakened immune system are at higher risk of severe infection.

The RSVpreF maternal vaccine is given during pregnancy to help protect the baby against severe RSV disease after birth. It is given as an injection into a muscle (intramuscularly), usually at 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy, and helps protect infants from birth to six months of age.

The RSVpreF maternal vaccine was not recommended for government subsidy for preventing illness from RSV infection in infants because its benefits do not justify its cost. Other options are available to help prevent severe RSV infection. Your doctor can advise whether the RSVpreF maternal vaccine or another option may be suitable for you and your child.