In this episode of Matter of Vax, Steph O'Connell discusses the highly infectious Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) with Dr. Nusrat Homaira, a paediatric respiratory epidemiologist. They explore how RSV predominantly impacts children under two, leading to severe conditions in infants and posing risks to the elderly. The discussion highlights the distinctions between RSV and influenza, the burden on healthcare systems, and the recent advancements in preventative measures, including new vaccines and monoclonal antibodies aimed at reducing RSV-related hospitalisations. 

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Host Steph O'Connell is a public health advocate with 25 years’ experience in communications and health communications. She became a public voice for vaccinations when her daughter, Lily (23), narrowly survived W strain of Meningococcal on Christmas Day, 2017. Nine months later her sister, Grace, donated a kidney that has since transformed Lily’s life.  Steph’s advocacy for immunisation awareness and vaccination became a collaboration in 2018 with Meningococcal Australia and resulted in Meningococcal vaccination campaigns by the Australian Government Department of Health and NSW Health. Lily’s story quickly resonated with audiences and became a national and international appeal for awareness, education and vaccination.  Steph’s work expanded during the pandemic and today she continues to advocate for improved access to vaccines, public education for lifelong vaccination behaviour and policy reform. MatterofVax, in collaboration with Immunisation Foundation of Australia takes a look at topical immunisation issues on video and podcast.  Matter of Vax is produced by Ampel, for Immunisation Foundation of Australia. 

Steph’s work expanded during the pandemic and today she continues to advocate for improved access to vaccines, public education for lifelong vaccination behaviour and policy reform. MatterofVax, in collaboration with Immunisation Foundation of Australia takes a look at topical immunisation issues on video and podcast. 

Matter of Vax is produced by Ampel, for Immunisation Foundation of Australia.