The federal government estimates the RSV vaccine would cost patients over $300 without a subsidy.

“We believe an RSV program such as this is likely to keep 10,000 babies out of hospital every single year.”

How serious is RSV?

“Infants are at the highest risk of severe RSV disease and complications during the first six months of life,” he said.

Its website says these can include premature infants, those with heart or lung problems or those that are immunocompromised (have weakened immune systems).

How does the RSV vaccine work?

“Those antibodies then pass through the placenta to the foetus, and the babies are born with antibodies that protect them for the first precious few months of their life.”

Its analysis of 2,978 people, 367 of whom had RSV, found vaccines were 75 per cent effective in preventing hospitalisation across all the ages studied, including those aged 75 and over.

Where can you get vaccinated?

RSV vaccines are not currently funded for other population groups under the NIP.