Winter vaccines for the family
As we head into winter with the inevitable colds and flu to welcome us, the question of immunisation becomes an important one. In addition to the ones already recommended on the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) what about the flu shot? Or the swine flu shot? And how do we prepare our children for the shots? And what about side effects?
Here are the facts:
- The Health Department’s current advice is that the current seasonal flu vaccination programme has been suspended indefinitely while an urgent national investigation takes place. However, all routine scheduled vaccinations should continue as per normal. If you have concerns you can contact your Health Department (see details below) for the most up to date news on the situation.
- The swine flu vaccination programme is a voluntary one and the Health Department encourages everyone to get vaccinated. Panvax will protect against the human swine flu virus and is free for everyone over 6 months of age. Please note that whilst the vaccination is free, your GP may charge a consultation fee and you should check this before making your appointment.
- How can parents prepare their children for these shots? Family Doctor Duncan Jefferson advises: “Treat it as a regular visit to the doctor, it’s likely to be far less painful than a tumble in the garden. Parents need to see this as an opportunity to protect their children, if parents are relaxed, children are more likely to follow their cues.”
- Dr Jefferson further advises, that whilst there are likely to be visual side effects like local soreness, redness or even bruising parents should not be overly concerned. However, “if there is excessive swelling at the site, or the child has a fever, seek a doctor’s advice immediately, don’t wait. Parents must act on their concerns.”
- For parents who have children who have had a bad experience with an injection or are likely to react badly Dr Jefferson advises talking to the GP or nurse before attending the appointment. Topical creams are expensive and should only be used in consultation with a medical professional.
WA Department of Health website
Tel: +61 8 9222 4222
NSW Department of Health website
Tel: +61 2 9391 9000
SA Department of Health website
Tel: +61 8 8226-6000
