Key messages
- RSV vaccine, Arexvy, is available on the private market in Australia for adults aged ≥60 years to prevent illness and severe complications associated with RSV infection.
- The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) have issued a Statement on the clinical use of Arexvy (RSV PRE-F3) vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults in .
- Arexvy RSV vaccine is not currently funded under the National Immunisation Program.
- Immunisers in Victoria are authorised to administer Arexvy RSV vaccine as listed below.
Authorised RSV immunisers in Victoria
Nurse immunisers, pharmacist immunisers, intern pharmacist immunisers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioner (ATSIHP) immunisers in Victoria are authorised to possess and administer Schedule 4 poisons via Secretary Approvals made under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Regulations 2017.
The RSV vaccine these immunisers are authorised to possess and administer is listed below.
| Immuniser | Vaccines/therapeutic products approved for use | Training, conditions and exclusions | Additional training and competency requirements |
| Nurse immuniser | Arexvy (RSV PRE-F3) vaccine for RSV, as recommended by the ATAGI | As specified in the Secretary Approval for nurse immunisers | No additional training requirements |
| Pharmacist immuniser | Arexvy (RSV PRE-F3) vaccine for RSV, as recommended by the ATAGI | As specified in the Secretary Approval for pharmacist immunisers | No additional training requirements |
| Intern pharmacist immuniser | Arexvy (RSV PRE-F3) vaccine for RSV, as recommended by the ATAGI | As specified in the Secretary Approval for intern pharmacist immunisers | No additional training requirements |
| ATSIHP immuniser | Arexvy (RSV PRE-F3) vaccine for RSV, as recommended by the ATAGI | As specified in the Secretary Approval for ATSIHP immunisers | No additional training requirements |
Immunisers must always refer to their relevant Secretary Approval for the conditions associated with administration of the approved Arexvy RSV vaccine.
All immunisers must maintain competence and operate within their individual scope of practice by ensuring that they have the knowledge, skills and currency of practice for all immunisations that they provide.
Clinical recommendations for RSV immunisation
Arexvy is a non-live RSV vaccine registered for use in adults ≥ 60 years.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has made recommendations on the clinical use of Arexvy RSV vaccine for older adults, including:
- schedule
- route of administration
- considerations for special populations
- co-administration with other vaccines
- contraindications and precautions.
A new chapter on RSV in the Australian Immunisation Handbook is being prepared and will be available by mid-2024.
Refer to the ATAGI Statement on the Clinical Use of Arexvy vaccine for .
Storage, handling and preparation of RSV vaccine
Immunisation providers must store and handle all vaccines according to the National Vaccine Storage Guidelines ‘Strive for
- Store Arexvy vaccine in the original package to protect vials from light.
- Arexvy must be reconstituted prior to administration.
- Refer to Arexvy product for more information.
Adverse Events Following Immunisation
Immunisation providers should report any adverse events following immunisation (AEFI). Find out more about common and rare AEFI following immunisation against Arexvy RSV .
Refer to Adverse Events following Immunisation (AEFI) reporting.
RSV vaccine administration errors
Learn how to avoid vaccine errors and establish practices that can identify report and manager vaccine errors. Refer to Vaccine error management.
Report to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR)
Providers are encouraged to record all RSV immunisations given on the AIR. Ensure you use the correct name, vaccine code (AREXVY), batch number, vaccine type field (private) and route of administration.
Further information can be found at the Using the Australian Immunisation webpage.
Resources for immunisation providers
- ATAGI Statement on the Clinical Use of Arexvy vaccine for for immunisation providers on administering RSV immunisations to eligible patients, contraindications, precautions and AEFI.
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance - Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Frequently asked questions
Reviewed 24 April 2024