As the weather starts to cool, now is the time to start preparing for some very unwanted house guests. Here's the latest information about changes to vaccine guidelines, and new immunisations.
Cooler weather is on our doorstep and it's bringing some very unwanted house guests — their names are COVID, influenza and RSV.
Last year, children between the ages of five and nine had the highest influenza notification rates, and the number of deaths in children under 16 Professor Blyth says getting a vaccine in April will mean you're protected when infections start ramping up in May and still be covered for the peak, which is typically in August.Dr Clements says it's "heartbreaking" to see people suffer from something preventable and he particularly wants to see more pregnant women and young children vaccinated this year.
RSV normally surges around April to July in the southern states, while case numbers in the tropics can be more consistent throughout the year.For years, Australians have suffered through RSV without the option of immunisation.The Therapeutic Goods Administration last year approved a drug called Nirsevimab, which is a long-acting antibody that's been shown to reduce infections by about 75 per cent for up to five months.
A 2024 booster is not recommended for those between the ages of five and 17, unless they're severely immunocompromised.Both Dr Clements and Professor Blyth urge all Australians to check with their GP about whether they're up to date with routine vaccinations. "It's not just about protecting yourself against the seasonal viruses but it's about keeping up to date with the routine stuff too," Professor Blyth says.A 'nightmare' case of RSV left baby Hazel in hospital for 23 days. Now WA infants will be immunised for free
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