Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and your community from preventable infectious diseases. In Australia, vaccination plays a key role in reducing illness, saving lives and ensuring public safety.
Still, many people have questions about vaccines how they work, why they matter and when to get them. In this blog, we answer the most common immunisation questions Australians ask, with a focus on the National Immunisation Program (NIP), childhood vaccination schedules and where to get vaccinated in Brisbane.
What Is Immunisation?
Immunisation is the process that makes your body resistant to infectious diseases, typically through vaccination. When you get a vaccine, it triggers your immune system to produce a protective response without causing the illness. As a result, your body remembers how to fight the disease if exposed in the future.
This process is safe, effective and scientifically proven. It is the best way to avoid serious complications from diseases like measles, whooping cough and polio.
Why Is Immunisation Important?
Immunisation protects more than just the individual it shields the entire community. When enough people are vaccinated, diseases struggle to spread. This is known as herd immunity and it protects vulnerable groups who cannot be vaccinated, such as newborns or immunocompromised individuals.
Before widespread vaccination in Australia, diseases like diphtheria, measles and polio were common and often fatal. Thanks to immunisation programs, these diseases are now rare. However, when vaccination rates drop, outbreaks can reoccur.
Vaccinating on time is crucial to maintaining both personal health and public safety.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Vaccines introduce a safe part of a virus or bacteria either dead, weakened or a synthetic copy to stimulate your immune system. This process does not cause illness but helps your body “learn” how to fight the real infection.
Later, if you come into contact with the actual disease, your immune system responds quickly and effectively. This fast response often stops the illness from developing or significantly reduces its severity.
Vaccines are the best way to prepare your immune system in advance, especially for diseases that can cause severe complications.
Why Should I Vaccinate My Child?
Vaccinating your child is essential to protect them from life-threatening diseases like measles, mumps, rubella and whooping cough. These diseases are highly contagious and can lead to serious long-term health issues.
Moreover, childhood immunisation helps protect the broader community. When most children are vaccinated, we reduce the chances of outbreaks and help protect children who are too young or medically unable to receive vaccines.
What Is the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule?
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) is an Australian Government initiative that offers free vaccines to eligible individuals. The program outlines when vaccines should be given at each life stage and ensures protection against multiple serious diseases.
Diseases covered under the NIP Schedule include:
- Chickenpox
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Whooping cough (pertussis)
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Polio
- Hepatitis B
- Pneumococcal disease
- Meningococcal ACWY
- Rotavirus
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Influenza
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
By following the schedule, you give your family the best chance to avoid preventable diseases. It is important to stay on time, especially for childhood vaccinations in the first five years.
Where Can I Get Vaccinated in Brisbane?
You can access vaccination services in Brisbane at various healthcare providers, including:
- (GP clinics) like Lakes Family medicine
- Local council immunisation sessions
- Participating pharmacies
- School-based vaccination programs
- Community health centres
Who Else Should Get Vaccinated?
Immunisation is important at every stage of life. In addition to children, the following groups should speak with a GP about recommended vaccines:
- Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy
- Parents, grandparents and carers
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Adults aged 65 and over
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Healthcare, aged care and childcare workers
- People travelling overseas
Your GP can review your medical history and lifestyle to ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
Do Teenagers Need Extra Vaccinations?
Yes. Teenagers receive additional vaccinations through school-based programs. These are free and part of the NIP and they include:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus and Whooping Cough (dTpa)
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Meningococcal ACWY
These vaccines help protect adolescents from serious diseases as they move into adulthood. Programs are typically delivered in Year 7 and Year 10.
Are Vaccines Safe?
Yes, vaccines used in Australia are safe. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) rigorously tests all vaccines for safety, quality and effectiveness before approving them for public use.
Most side effects such as mild fever, fatigue or soreness at the injection site are short-lived and resolve within a day or two. Severe reactions are extremely rare but should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.
Choosing vaccination is far safer than risking the complications of serious diseases.
Conclusion
Vaccination is a simple, safe and essential way to protect your health and the health of your family. It reduces your risk of serious illness and helps prevent the spread of disease in the community.
By staying up to date with your vaccinations, you are not only protecting yourself you are contributing to a healthier Brisbane. Lakes Family Medicine provides trusted, evidence-based immunisation services in Brisbane. Whether you are looking to follow the childhood vaccination schedule, update your adult immunisations or get travel vaccines, our experienced GPs are here to help. We are committed to supporting the long-term health of families across Brisbane with reliable, friendly and accessible care.
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