Plan to reverse low vax rates

PUBLIC health experts are calling for coordinated action to reverse Australia’s “extremely concerning” declining rates of childhood vaccination, providing practical strategies to improve uptake.

Rates have declined each year since the start of COVID, remaining below the national target of 95% across all three standard age milestones.

According to new research, barriers include out-of-pocket costs, limited appointment availability, lack of opportunities to discuss vaccination with providers and eroding trust.

Given the multi-faceted nature of the challenges, the researchers outlined a coordinated, multi-sector action response.

This includes:

* improving access to vaccination by reducing out-of-pocket costs and increasing outlets and hours;

* supporting provider education and advocacy by increasing funding for vaccine conversations and embedding communication training in healthcare providers’ professional development;

* supporting parent and caregiver knowledge and confidence through messaging from trusted advocates and automated reminders; and

* facilitating access to data to enable better sharing.

“These strategies are grounded in evidence and shaped by the voice of community members, healthcare professionals and policymakers, giving us confidence in their relevance and effectiveness,” emphasised lead author Dr Kasia Bolsewicz of the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance.

“Prioritising catch-up vaccinations for children who are overdue for their recommended doses is essential to protect them from potentially life-threatening, vaccine-preventable diseases,” she added.

Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, CEO, Public Health Association of Australia, said that reversing the decline in childhood vaccination coverage is a public health priority.

“The power and reach of social media, the challenges raised by COVID-19 and misinformation around immunisation coming out of the USA mean it has never been more important to boost access to and confidence in vaccines,” Professor Slevin said.

Read the research HERE. KB