Essential Vaccination Updates: What You Need to Know in Australia from Clifton Beach Medical & Surgical

Essential Vaccination Updates: What You Need to Know in Australia

Vaccination protects public health in Australia. It guards individuals and families alike. Experts change their views. You must follow the latest advice. New facts and guidelines help us act now.

The Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination works to secure individual and community health. Most Australians trust vaccines. Vaccines boost immunity in our groups. When many people are immunised, diseases shrink, and even the unvaccinated gain some shield. Australia has a strong record. In the 1970s, vaccination wiped out smallpox. To stop measles, a 95% vaccination rate remains key.

Recent Updates in Vaccination Policies

Since July 2023, Australia has made clear vaccine updates:

1. Free Catch-Up Vaccinations
   The government gives free catch-up shots for all Australians under 19. It also helps refugees and humanitarian entrants of any age. This fix closes gaps in immunisation for young people.

2. Shingles Vaccination
   The shingles vaccine now comes free for 70-year-olds. People aged 71 to 79 also join a five-year catch-up plan. This plan helps stop painful bursts of shingles.

3. Meningococcal Vaccination
   Year 10 students and teenagers aged 15 to 17 get free shots for types A, C, Y, and W. This step fights dangerous meningococcal disease.

4. HPV Vaccination and Changes in Screening
   Since 2007, the HPV vaccine has cut risks of cervical and genital cancers. Updated pap smear screenings now back this vaccine. The vaccine helps lower cancer cases.

5. MMR Vaccine Requirements
   If you were born after 1966 and did not get your MMR vaccines, ask your healthcare provider. They can check your records and provide the needed shots.

Understanding the Risks

Vaccines are very safe. Risks of side effects stay extremely low. In contrast, diseases like whooping cough can cause harm. Whooping cough hits mostly adults, yet infants under two suffer the most. Expectant mothers now get vaccinated during pregnancy to shield their babies.

The Need for Awareness and Education

Learning about vaccines matters. The government shares clear resources. Visit immunise.health.gov.au. This site explains when to get vaccines and how they stop diseases.

In summary, stay aware and get vaccinated. Your choice helps build a healthier Australia. Together, we secure our lives and the lives of future generations.

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