Are your child’s immunisations up to date?

From the moment they’re born, most babies can fight the germs they encounter every day, but there are some serious and life-threatening diseases they are not protected from. Immunisations under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) are a free, safe, and effective way to protect children from preventable diseases, such as measles and whooping cough.

The childhood immunisation schedule is carefully planned to protect babies and children from as early as possible and when they need it most. Vaccinating on time with the schedule gives the best protection from preventable diseases. Delaying a vaccine appointment means your child is unprotected for longer than they need to be.

You can see if your child is up to date by:

• viewing the NIP schedule to see which immunisations are recommended at specific times.

• checking your child’s immunisation history through the Medicare Express app,

• or via myGov Medicare online account.

Here at SDC, we run a quarterly audit to recall children who are overdue for childhood immunisations. Although you can rely on us to remind you, it is important that parents/guardians keep on top of their child’s immunisation schedule to ensure they are protected.

For more information, speak to your GP or visit health.gov.au/childhoodimmunisation.