More than 10,000 RSV infections in people 50 and over already; people with asthma at most significant risk

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is on track to hit its winter peak, with more than 10,000 people aged 50 and over infected so far this year. Asthma Australia is urging older people with respiratory conditions like asthma to take steps now to protect themselves from this common and contagious respiratory disease, which can lead to severe complications.

Why RSV is a risk for older people with asthma?

RSV is typically known for causing mild, cold and flu-like symptoms, but for older adults, especially those with asthma, the virus can be much more dangerous; adults with asthma are up to 8 times more likely to be hospitalised for RSV than those without the condition.

Older adults are more at risk of the RSV virus infecting the airways and the lungs, causing serious respiratory conditions like pneumonia and hospitalisation. Being sick with RSV can also worsen asthma symptoms.

Protective measures for older Australians

To protect themselves during the RSV season, people 50 and over with asthma should:

• Be aware of young family members: Older people who care for young children should be particularly vigilant. Most children will get infected by RSV at least once before the age of two years. Sick children can easily transmit the virus to older adults. Ensure children have fully recovered before returning to the care of older adults, as well as to school or daycare.
• Talk to their doctor about vaccination: Vaccines against RSV are now available for pregnant mothers, young children and older people. This helps protect both the children and the older adults who care for them.
• Practise good hygiene: Wash hands regularly, avoid close contact with unwell individuals, and consider wearing masks in crowded places to help prevent the spread of RSV.
• Manage asthma effectively: Ensure asthma is well-controlled by following treatment plans, including using a prescribed preventer regularly and having an Asthma Action Plan in place for when an asthma flare-up occurs.

CEO of Asthma Australia Kate Miranda said, “The impact of viruses like RSV on the community have long been underestimated. For most of us it means a few days close to a box of tissues but for the older adults and people with asthma, it can be quite dangerous, increasing the risk of pneumonia, hospitalisation and even death.

“Asthma Australia is asking people who are pregnant or care for young children, as well as older adults with asthma to not be complacent this season. Take action to reduce risk of infection in the community, including paying attention to hygiene practices and getting vaccinated.”

ENDS

Information sourced from:

Department of Health. National Communicable Disease Surveillance Dashboard [Internet]. Accessed 9 May 2025. https://nindss.health.gov.au/pbi-dashboard/

ATAGI. Australian Immunisation Handbook, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Canberra, 2024, accessed 9 may 2025. immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv

National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Frequently asked questions (FAQs) [Internet]. Accessed 9 May 2025. https://ncirs.org.au/ncirs-fact-sheets-faqs-and-other-resources/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-frequently-asked#faq_5

Immunisation Coalition. RSV Guide [Internet]. Accessed 9 May 2025. https://www.immunisationcoalition.org.au/resources/rsv-guide/

Penders Y, Brusselle G, Falsey AR, et al. Burden of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease in Adults with Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Literature Review. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2025 Feb 25;25(1):14. doi: 10.1007/s11882-025-01194-w.

Global Initiative for Asthma. Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention, updated 2024 [Internet]. Accessed 9 May 2025. https://ginasthma.org/2024-report/

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) [Internet]. Accessed 9 May 2025. https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Respiratory_syncytial_virus_RSV/

For more information:

Contact Trinity Frederick, 0413 99 22 82