Immunisation Archives

30 October 2024

Some practices in South Western Sydney provide de-identified data for research projects relevant to general practice. SAFESIG GP, in collaboration with SAEFVIC, is investigating vaccine safety using primary care data.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) noticed a potential safety issue with early shingles cases after Shingrix vaccination and asked SAEFVIC to investigate. Although Shingrix is highly effective in preventing shingles¹, some cases of shingles soon after vaccination suggest it might cause varicella reactivation².

There was found to be an increase in shingles cases within 21 days after the first Shingrix dose in people over 65. The risk drops below pre-vaccination rates after this period, showing strong protection and the vaccine’s benefits still outweigh the risks. Patient counselling is advised.

¹ Izurieta HS, Wu X, Forshee R, Lu Y, Sung HM, Agger PE, et al. Recombinant Zoster Vaccine (Shingrix): Real-World Effectiveness in the First 2 Years Post-Licensure. Clin Infect Dis. 2021;73(6):941-8.

² Altukhaim F, Mutlaq M, Alghamdi M, Hakami S. Reactivation of Herpes Zoster After Recombinant Vaccine (Shingrix): A Case Report. Cureus. 2023;15(1):e34431.

30 October 2024

The ongoing outbreak of mpox in Australia has prompted a call for clinicians to stay vigilant, with 523 new notifications in NSW since 1 June 2024.

Mpox infection has almost exclusively been diagnosed among men who have sex with men. It spreads through sexual contact and other similarly close contact, and poses a serious health risk in the South Western Sydney community which has reported 26 notifications of the disease between 1 June and 19 October 2024.

Most mpox infections are mild and self-limiting, but severe infection and complications can occur, especially in people who are immunocompromised. Mpox is vaccine-preventable.

SWSPHN will host a webinar on Thursday, 14 November from 7pm to 8.30pm aimed at helping GPs gain an awareness of the current mpox outbreak and recent congenital syphilis cases in South Western Sydney, and how to prevent, diagnose and manage them.

Register for webinar

GPs and clinicians are also encouraged to use available resources and be proactive in addressing this ongoing public health concern.

NSW Health

General information for healthcare professionals

Translated flyers

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

Monkeypox resources

Patient referral and testing guidance

Treatment guidelines

Acon

Information for LGBTQ+ communities

ASHM

Rising mpox cases: Essential update for GPs and clinicians

29 October 2024

Registered nurses who work in South Western Sydney can be reimbursed for 100 per cent of the costs of immunisation training to become an Authorised Nurse Immuniser in NSW.

SWSPHN will continue to reimburse the full course costs, following the transition of the (Nurse Immuniser) Course in Immunisation Practice to the Immunisation Course for Health Professionals on 16 October 2024.

Completion of the redesigned, Health Education Services Australia (HESA)-accredited Immunisation Course for Health Professionals authorises nurses to administer vaccinations independent of a medical officer. The course is delivered by the Benchmarque Group.

What’s new?

The course has a new and improved streamlined design, and the hours of learning have been reduced from 120 to 70 hours. The course now has two delivery methods – the traditional eLearning plus mandatory one-day workshop or the new five-day in-person delivery model. Reimbursement is not available for the five-day intensive course.

What you need to know

If you registered for the original course before 16 October, you can still claim the full $850 cost of the course.

You are reminded to submit completed forms before 30 December 2024 to receive your payment.

completed reimbursement form (linked below)
completion certificate
invoice

Reimbursement form

If you have registered or plan on registering for the new course, SWSPHN is offering 100 per cent fee reimbursement of $500 for those completing the course by 31 December 2025.

Find out more, including

training entry criteria
express your interest

29 October 2024

Registered nurses who work in South Western Sydney can receive free training to become an Authorised Nurse Immuniser in NSW.

Following on from the training offer in 2024, SWSPHN will continue to reimburse the full course costs for the now redesigned Health Education Services Australia (HESA)-accredited Immunisation Course for Health Professionals, which authorises nurses to administer vaccinations independent of a medical officer. The course is delivered by The Benchmarque Group.

Authorised Nurse Immuniser in NSW course – redesigned

Authorised Nurse Immuniser in NSW has a new, streamlined design. The hours of learning have been reduced from 120 to 70 hours. It includes two delivery methods – eLearning plus mandatory one-day workshop, or the new five-day in-person delivery model. Reimbursement is not available for the five-day intensive course.

Training entry criteria

You must currently be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia as a registered nurse or midwife.
You must be working within the nursing profession in a general practice or residential aged care home located in the local government area of Bankstown, Campbelltown, Camden, Fairfield, Liverpool, Wollondilly or Wingecarribee.
You must have two to three years’ experience within the nursing profession since initial registration, with the last 12 months prior to making the application spent in employment in NSW or the ACT.

100 per cent reimbursement of course fee

Complete the course between 16 October 2024 to late 2025 to receive a 100 per cent reimbursement of the course fee of $500.

Submit completed forms in the below order before 30 December 2025 to receive your reimbursment.

completed reimbursement form (linked below)
completion certificate
invoice

Reimbursement form

Nurse Immunisation Training EOI

Complete this expression of interest to undertake nurse immunisation training.

"*" indicates required fields

Hidden

application date

First name*

Last name*

Name of practice or RACH*

Practice or RACH address*

Phone no.*

Email*

Requirements*

Tick all statements which apply to you.

I am currently registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia as a registered nurse or midwife.

I work within the nursing profession in a general practice and residential aged care home located in South Western Sydney. This includes the local government areas of Bankstown, Campbelltown, Camden, Fairfield, Liverpool, Wollondilly or Wingecarribee.

I have a minimum of two years' experience within the nursing profession since initial registration, with the last 12 months prior to making the application spent in employment in NSW or the ACT.

I understand I need to provide a reimbursement form, copy of receipt and completion certificate to receive payment

Consent*

I acknowledge and consent to the collection and use of my personal information in accordance with South Western Sydney PHN’s Privacy Policy. I also acknowledge that I am not sharing another person’s personal information without their informed consent. I understand SWSPHN takes my privacy seriously and will handle my data securely.

If you registered for this course prior to 16 October 2024, you can still claim the full $850 cost of the course by 30 December 2024. Find information about the 2024 course.

Participants with any questions can email covid19@swsphn.com.au

Funding for this initiative is provided by the Department of Health and Aged Care.

10 July 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infection which mostly affects young children. Most symptoms are usually mild, but some children can get very sick and need hospitalisation.

Vulnerable babies in NSW are eligible to receive an immunisation – called Beyfortus^TM(nirsevimab) – to protect them against severe illness from RSV.

These include: babies aged 12 months and under, especially those aged six months and under; young children aged two years and under with medical conditions such as chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease; babies and young children aged two and under who were born pre-term or with a low birth-weight; and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander infants and children aged two and under.

Beyfortus^TM is not a vaccine. It is a type of immunity that occurs when a person is given antibodies rather than making it through their own immune system. It contains pre-made RSV antibodies that protect the body from illness and gives protection almost immediately.

To support the implementation of the Beyfortus^TM program, two information sheets for parents and carers are now available.

Immunisation producer Sanofi has also sent information kits to NSW Health facilities. Additional supplies can be ordered using the order form or via the Vaxiplace webpage.

You will need to log in with an AHPRA number if using the site.

Information for parents and carers

Information for parents and carers of Aboriginal babies

Immunisation resources

Beyfortus Support Materials Order Form

21 June 2024

Flu vaccine

The annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months or over and is free for some people under the National Immunisation Program.

These people include:

children aged six months to five years
adults aged 65 years and over
Pregnant women
First Nations people aged six months or older
people with identified medical risk conditions

Speak to your GP or pharmacist, or find and book a flu vaccine service through healthdirect at Book your flu vaccine

COVID-19 booster

Adults 75 years and over, or people aged 18 to 74 who have a very weak immune system (immunocompromised) are eligible to receive a booster dose every six months.

Adults (over 18 years) may get a booster dose every 12 months. Children aged between five and 17 who have a very weak immune system are also eligible to receive a booster dose every 12 months.

COVID-19 vaccination is free for everyone living in Australia. The vaccine is available at many GP practices and pharmacies.

Check when you received your last vaccination through My Health Record or Medicare.

Check your eligibility for a COVID-19 vaccine using the Department of Health and Aged Care eligibility checker.

COVID-19 Booster Eligibility Checker

To arrange your booster, speak to your GP or visit the healthdirect COVID-19 vaccine clinic finder.

Healthdirect Service Finder

04 June 2024

The 2024 influenza season has begun, with activity expected to continue increasing rapidly over the next six to eight weeks.

COVID-19 activity is currently at moderate levels and expected to further increase.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity continues to be high.

Pneumonia in children has increased since December 2023 and remains elevated, particularly in children aged five to 16 years and young adults aged 17 to 34.

It is anticipated a large number of people will be infected with COVID-19, influenza and/or RSV this winter, as all three viruses will be circulating at the same time.

Please see the NSW respiratory surveillance report and media release for more information.

How can general practitioners prepare?

GPs are encouraged to plan ahead by:

promoting and encouraging COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations where appropriate. Doctors are trusted providers and your recommendations are highly valued
seasonal influenza vaccine is also recommended for poultry workers in the context of increased circulation of avian influenza globally
conducting timely respiratory testing for people at higher risk of severe illness, to facilitate antiviral access where appropriate
facilitating antiviral treatment for:
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) where appropriate
Oral COVID-19 antiviral medicines which remain accessible through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
encouraging the use of the antiviral medicine pre-assessment action plan for people who are at higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19 or influenza to support timely management of respiratory illness

Antibiotic treatment for mycoplasma pneumoniae

The current rise in mycoplasma pneumoniae infections has resulted in an increase in demand for antibiotic oral liquids including azithromycin and clarithromycin.

This may result in these medicines being in short supply.

The suppliers are working to expedite future shipments.

Please carefully consider the need for antibiotic treatment and if prescribing an antibiotic, consider current availability by consulting your local pharmacy.

Local pharmacies may contact you to amend current prescriptions to alternative dose formulations or antibiotics during this period.

28 May 2024

The South Western Sydney Local Health District’s (SWSLHD) Public Health Unit (PHU) has provided the following public health updates.

Pertussis

South Western Sydney is currently experiencing large numbers of pertussis (whooping cough) cases.

The duration of antibiotics for pertussis depends on the agent and dose:

Azithromycin (preferred) for 5 days
Clarithromycin for 7 days
Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole for 7 days
Erythromycin for 14 days

See the Therapeutic Guidelines or Australian Medicines Handbook for dosage details.

If you would like advice on antibiotics for pertussis you can call 1300 066 055 or

SWSLHD-CommunicableDisease@health.nsw.gov.au

Respiratory viruses

The latest NSW Health Respiratory Surveillance Report shows both influenza and COVID transmission in the community is rapidly increasing.

RSV activity remains high and all three viruses are expected to co-circulate at the same time this winter.

SWSLHD has some of the lowest influenza and COVID-19 vaccination rates in NSW.

Research shows one of the strongest drivers for vaccination is a recommendation from their doctors and health practitioners.

SWSLHD PHU is urging GPs and health practitioners to encourage their patients to stay up to date with their COVID-19 and flu vaccinations.

Find out more about flu vaccinations and COVID-19 vaccinations.

Pneumonia

There are ongoing high numbers of mild to moderate pneumonia in children and adults aged under 65 years.

much of this increase is likely due to mycoplasma pneumoniae
mycoplasma pneumoniae can be diagnosed by PCR on a nose/throat swab
recommended antibiotics include azithromycin and doxycycline

See the Therapeutic Guidelines or Australian Medicines Handbook for dosage details.

22 April 2024

Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) was a hive of activity last week (Monday, 15 April) as patients, young and old, flocked to the Airds centre for their annual influenza (flu) vaccination.

In the lead up to World Immunization Week, 24 to 30 April, local NSW Public Health Unit staff visited the centre to deliver flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccinations to 150 patients, who were also treated to a cuppa, pizza from Manoosh and Co, and entry into a raffle for a fresh fruit and vegetable box.

Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Darryl Wright, praised the community for so enthusiastically turning out to get vaccinated.

“We had a strong turnout for this year’s flu clinic and we’re continuing to vaccinate each day in the medical centre,” Mr Wright said. “It’s great to know so many in our community will be protected as we head into this year’s flu season.”

Flu vaccinations began across Australia in mid-April to provide protection for the peak of the flu season, generally June to September.

Free influenza vaccines are available to eligible people under the National Immunisation Program, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and:

children from six months to under five years of age
people with serious health conditions (including severe asthma, diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease)
pregnant women
people who are 65 years of age and over

South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Keith McDonald PhD, encouraged the wider community to also roll up their sleeves for the flu jab.

“After years of being overwhelmed with COVID-19 vaccine information it’s not surprising many people are experiencing vaccine fatigue,” he said.

“But it’s important to remember, just 15 minutes out of your day to get the jab not only protects you but protects those around you – your grandparents or a family member with an immune disorder, for example – from the effects of severe disease.”

Dr McDonald said it was important to have a flu vaccination every year because the vaccines were tailored to the different strains of flu circulating each flu season.

“And despite the common myth, flu vaccines do not cause flu,” he said. “Vaccines are a safe and effective way of protecting our community, in particular the most vulnerable in our community.”

You can book your flu shot through your doctor, pharmacist or Aboriginal Medical Service. Pharmacists can administer flu shots to children aged five and over. Parents with children aged under five should see their doctor.

PICTURE CAPTION: Above – Larry Hoskins was among 150 patients to roll up their sleeves for a flu vaccination at Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Service last week. Top to bottom – Aboriginal Health Worker Vickie Connolly, the raffle prize and Johnny Ohanian from Manoosh and Co.

12 March 2024

It’s important your patients prepare before travelling overseas to avoid diseases and other health issues.

Providing a travel consultation with your patients minimises the risks which may occur during travel.

The travel consultation aims to:

assess the traveller’s trip plans and determine potential health hazards
educate the traveller about anticipated risks and methods for prevention
prescribe travel vaccinations for preventable diseases and medications for prophylaxis, or self-treatment

If you are not confident providing advice to travellers, particularly about vaccinations, please consider referral to a dedicated travel clinic.

Your patients can visit the NSW Health website for steps to staying healthy when travelling or Health Resource Directory to find more travel health advice resources.

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Topic: Immunisation