Why immunise?
Immunisation is the best way to protect the community from serious diseases.
The more people who immunise their children, the more we can control serious vaccine preventable diseases. High rates of immunisation produce herd immunity within the community. This keeps safe our most vulnerable community members, like babies and people who are very ill.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection by working with the body’s natural immune system to safely develop immunity to disease.
When a patient swallows or is injected with a vaccine, their body produces an immune response in the same way it would following exposure to a disease but without them getting sick from the disease.
If someone is exposed to the disease in the future, their body will be able to make a response fast enough to prevent them from getting sick, the antibodies will recognise the disease and fight it off. Sometimes, vaccines can cause minor symptoms, such as fever. Such minor symptoms are usually normal and should be expected as the body builds immunity.
All vaccines registered in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) are evaluated to ensure they are effective, comply with strict manufacturing and production standards, and have a strong safety record.
Who needs vaccinations within the community?
Every member of the community will require vaccination at some stage to ensure ongoing good health and protection against vaccine preventable diseases.
Viruses and bacteria which cause sickness and death still exist and can be passed on to those who are not protected by vaccines.
However, certain members of the community may not be able to be vaccinated for medical reasons. GPs can help patients to decide when and whether they need vaccinations by reviewing any underlying health conditions, assessing age appropriate vaccinations, as well as discussing any lifestyle or occupational hazards which may be encountered.
For more information on vaccines make an appointment and talk to your GP.
Resources for community
You can find out more information at:
- National Immunisation Program
- Check out these FAQs- frequently asked questions – such as how can I make this easier for my child, what is in vaccines, how do vaccines affect my child’s immunity?
- South Western Sydney Local Health District – Child Youth and Family Services
- Social Media Tiles