Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way of protecting people against harmful diseases before they come into contact with them in the community. Immunisation protects not only you but also others in the community by reducing the spread of disease.
A number of diseases can be prevented by routine childhood immunisations which are included in the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule.
Why should children be immunised?
Immunisation is the safest and most effective way of giving protection against the disease. After immunisation, your child is far less likely to catch the disease if there are cases in the community. The benefit of protection against the disease far outweighs the very small risks of immunisation.
If enough people in the community are immunised, the infection can no longer be spread from person to person and the disease dies out altogether. This is how smallpox was eliminated from the world and polio has disappeared from many countries.
Where can my child get immunised?
Immunisation services within the Borough of Queenscliffe are offered by your doctor or your local health care provide, such as Bellarine Community Health in Point Lonsdale, telephone 03 5258 0888.
If you are in the Geelong region you have the option of going to one of Barwon Health's immunisation clinics, please click on the link below to get a list of available sessions.
How do I get a copy of my child's vaccination history?
Records are kept by the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR), which is run by Medicare Australia. You can obtain a record of your child's immunisation history from ACIR through the Medicare Australia website. You will need to register for online services at the Medicare website and then you will be able to request a history statement. Alternatively, call ACIR on 1800 653 809 and ask for a statement to be sent to you.
If your child was born before 1989 you will need to contact the general practice, health centre or immunisation provider that your child attended for the first two years of their life. They will be able to provide you with a copy of their medical records, including all immunisations they have had.