Immunisation Patterns in Australia: The Present Situation and Suggested Future Strategies

Abstract

The dramatic reduction in the morbidity and mortality rates for the common preventable infections, which are usually seen in children, and for which preventive immunisation is available, has lulled the public and the medical profession into a false sense of security. Whilst rates of immunisation with triple antigen and polio vaccines for urban populations are approaching adequacy to prevent epidemics, considerable numbers of individuals and groups of migrants, lower socio‐economic and rural people are inadequately protected. Measles, rubella and tetanus immunisation is markedly deficient throughout Australia. The methods for recording immunisation and the quality of information which parents and professionals hold are also inadequate. This paper reviews immunisation status in Australia, discusses socio‐economic, cultural, educational, professional, and political factors, and also suggests strategies for raising the current immunisation status.