Immunisation
BCG vaccination
What is a BCG vaccination? The BCG vaccine is the vaccine for tuberculosis, also known as TB. Tuberculosis is a serious bacterial infection. It mainly affects the lungs. The vaccine contains a weak form of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. After you have the vaccine, your body develops immunity against...
Immunisation
What is immunisation? Immunisation is the process of getting a vaccine against a serious disease. Vaccines work by producing an immune response in the body without causing illness. When you get a vaccine, your immune system creates antibodies which help to fight disease. If you come into contact with the...
Immunisation and pregnancy
What is immunisation and pregnancy? Getting certain vaccines before, during and after pregnancy protects you and your baby. Vaccines for pregnant women include: Flu vaccine – can be taken any time while you are pregnant Pertussis vaccine – can be taken 20-32 weeks into your pregnancy If you’re planning to...
Immunisation side effects
What is an immunisation side effect? Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) is the term used to describe the medical issues that people may have after getting a vaccine. It is also called a side effect of immunisation. Most are minor and expected. These include soreness at injection site, and feeling...
Influenza immunisation
What is an influenza immunisation? The influenza (flu) vaccine protects against the flu. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of getting sick with the flu and spreading it. Some people, like those with severe health issues, are more at risk of getting sick from the flu. The flu virus changes...
Travel vaccination
What is travel vaccination? Travel vaccinations are vaccines that protect against the serious diseases you may encounter when travelling overseas. Overseas travel can expose you to serious infectious diseases that are not common in Australia. Pregnant women, babies, young children, the elderly and people with a weak immune system have...