On this page

1. Measles resources and vaccine eligibility
2. Commonwealth HPV campaign launch
3. Medical exemptions to vaccination
4. E-learning modules for AIR users

Measles resources and vaccine eligibility

The Australian Academy of Science has developed a suite of measles educational and promotional materials for vaccination providers and consumers, to raise awareness about measles, with a particular focus on those most at risk of the disease such as travellers or those born during or from 1966.

GPs are reminded that measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free for all people born during or after 1966, who haven’t had measles or two doses of measles vaccine.

Commonwealth’s HPV campaign launch

The Australian Government’s Department of Health has launched a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination communication campaign (including translations), aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits, importance, safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, and increasing uptake of the vaccine delivered in schools through the National Immunisation Program. The primary audience for the campaign is parents of young adults, and young adults aged up to 19 years who are eligible for free catch-up doses. A campaign news item is also available.

Medical exemptions to vaccination

• There are two permanent exemptions to vaccination: anaphylaxis to vaccine/vaccine component and significant immunocompromise (live attenuated vaccines only).
• Information on medical contraindications to each vaccine are detailed in the online nformation on medical contraindications to each vaccine are detailed in the online Australian Immunisation Handbook.
• NSW Health offers a specialist immunisation service for clinicians and families. The NSW Immunisation Specialist Service (NSWISS) provides clinical advice and support on immunisation needs for patients with complex of unusual backgrounds or who have had an adverse event following immunisation.
• Practitioners are encouraged to use this service to support clinical practice and management of medical contraindications to vaccinations. The service may also benefit patients and parents who need support in their immunisation decision making.

E-learning modules for Australian Immunisation Register users

• All childhood and adult vaccinations should be reported to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), regardless of funding source (Private Script, State or NIP funded).
• Services Australia has published five new AIR eLearning education modules to help providers understand how to access and use AIR site and record vaccination episodes. The modules can be viewed at www.humanservices.gov.au/hpeducation
• Reporting immunisations to the AIR ensures other providers can be aware of a patient’s vaccination history, prevents duplication of vaccinations, and facilitates Family Tax payments and enrolment into childcare.