Last year there was a large increase in the number of febrile seizures in young children following influenza vaccination. This was noted particularly in Western Australia, which was conducting a study of the benefits of a free influenza vaccination program for children aged 6months to 4 years. These reactions were associated with a single brand of vaccine (Fluvax®) and not with the others in use last year. Fluvax® was withdrawn from use in children last year and is no longer registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in young children. Other vaccines found to be safe in 2010 have been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and are available for use in young children in 2011.

The Commonwealth Government’s Chief Medical Officer (Prof Jim Bishop) issued a statement on 7 March 2011 concerning seasonal flu vaccination in 2011.

The CMO’s full statement can be read here:  CMO_Letter_7_March_2011.pdf

Additionally, the detailed statement by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) which includes the rationale for the recommendations can be accessed via http://www.immunise.health.gov.au

Current Australian immunisation guidelines recommend annual vaccination for anyone who wishes to protect themselves against influenza.¹ In particular, the recommendations state that Australians over the age of 6 months who are at risk of severe complications from influenza should be vaccinated annually, including those with heart conditions, asthma and other lung conditions, diabetes (type 1 and type 2), kidney problems or impaired immunity, or anyone aged ≥65 years.¹

References

1. National Health and Medical Research Council, The Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2008, Available at: http://immunise.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/Handbook-home