February 1, 2017

Immunity for the community

Local Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP has strongly encouraged parents to ensure that their children’s immunisations are up to date before school begins for 2017.

The immunisation rates for 5 year olds across the Macedon Ranges are still well below the state target of 95% which will provide "herd immunity" to halt the spread of dangerous and virulent diseases.

The latest figures from the Department of Health and Human Services show that only 91% of school aged children in the Macedon Ranges are fully vaccinated. Ms Thomas encourages those parents who have not had their children immunised to take action.

"Getting your child immunised is not just about your own child’s health, but it’s vital for the wider community as well. There are children, who for medical reasons cannot be vaccinated and so rely on herd immunisation for their safety" she said.

She also encouraged any parents who had concerns about the science of immunisations to speak with their local GP for the facts, or visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au

"Immunisations save lives. It’s as clear and simple as that, however there’s a lot misinformation that’s been spread about these remarkable scientific breakthroughs. This is why we’ve put so much effort into ensuring that there’s plenty of factual information out there for parents."

The Andrews Labor Government passed the No Jab No Play legislation last year, which requires all children to be fully vaccinated to attend childcare and kindergarten, in order to lift the rate of immunisation across the state. They also recently launched the VaxOnTime app to help busy parents keep track of when their children’s vaccinations are due.

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council holds free monthly Immunisation Sessions. The full 2017 timetable can be found at mrsc.vic.gov.au/immunisations

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