Immunisation

Recent reports have raised concerns about immunisation services in the City of Salisbury.  Here are some things you need to know.

Download the fact sheet Immunisation Services in the City of Salisbury. 

See the minutes of the Relevant Council Meeting.

Read the Council Report on Immunisation.

 

Why immunise children?

Immunisation protects your child, their playmates and the community generally from serious complications of common diseases that can be prevented. If the community is not adequately protected through immunisation these diseases can become a major health issue. In the 14 years between 1978 and 1992 measles killed more than 12 children a year.

Immunisation not only greatly reduces the chance of catching a preventable disease, but also reduces the severity of the disease in children that do contract it.

What service does council provide?

The City of Salisbury provides a free immunisation service for pre-school and school children to year 10. This service is administered by the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).

What free immunisations are provided?

• Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Measles, Mumps and Rubella
• Poliomyelitis
• Haemophilus Influenzae type B (Hib)
• Adult Diptheria and Tetanus and oral Poliomyelitis for older children (15-19)
• Hepatitis B

Chicken Pox Vaccination is available at a cost of $45 per vaccination. This must be pre-ordered. To do so, contact RDNS immunisation services on 1300 364 264.

Clinic locations and times

Is Immunisation Safe?

Sometimes children react to the vaccine. However, severe reactions are not common and the risks associated with these diseases are far greater.

Common Reactions to Vaccination

Some mild reactions and discomfort for your child may be expected following immunisation. Any injection may result in soreness, redness, itching, swelling or burning at an injection site. A cold wet cloth will relieve this. Sometimes a small, hard lump may persist for weeks or more.

With DTP and Hib Vaccines low grade fever, grizzlyness, drowsiness and generally being unsettled may occur lasting 1 or 2 days.

Possible reactions to Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine include fever, rash and cold like symptoms. They can last 2-3 days and usually occur 6-11 days after vaccination.

What do I do if my child is reacting to a vaccine?

• Give fluids
• Do not overdress child if hot
• Tepid bath or sponge if hot
• Give paracetamol (dose for weight) to lower temperature every 4-6 hours if needed -up to a maximum of 6 doses in 24hrs.

If reactions are severe and persistent, or if you are worried about your child, contact the parent helpline on 1300 364 264, your doctor, hospital or public immunisation provider.

RDNS Contact information

Royal District Nurses Northern Regional Office can be contacted on 1300 364 264 or on quick dial 7041. For more information and contact details see Royal District Nursing Service in CISA.

Service is administered by the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS).

Immunisation Calculator

Located on the Department of Human Services website, the Immunisation Calculator is for Australian children up to their 7th birthday on the Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule. It helps to determine what vaccinations are due. You will need your child's immunisation records ready to enter the dates that doses of vaccine were given.

For more information about the Immunisation Calculator, click here.

Immunisation Information and Fact Sheets

For more information, visit the SA Department of Health web site.

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