Updated immunisation reference page: COVID‑19
We have updated our COVID-19 reference page with up-to-date guidance on currently available COVID-19 vaccines, across age groups.
The newly updated page includes recommendations on the use of the new monovalent XBB.1.5 vaccines and answers to commonly asked questions relating to the new vaccines as well as other COVID-19 vaccine-related queries.
Updated immunisation reference page: Q fever
We have recently updated our Q fever reference page.
Q fever is caused by infection with the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. People at highest risk of exposure are those in close contact with animals and animal products. Despite being a vaccine-preventable disease, there are around 500 cases of Q fever reported across Australia every year.
The updated page provides greater detail on what Q fever is, its symptoms, complications, epidemiology and prevention.
Updated immunisation reference page: Typhoid
We have recently reviewed our typhoid reference page.
Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are collectively known as enteric fever. Caused by bacterial infections with Salmonella enterica subspecies, typhoid and paratyphoid fever often present with prolonged fever and fatigue, headaches, enlargement of the spleen, abdominal symptoms, bacterial blood infection.
Newly reviewed immunisation reference – MVEC: Typhoid
Updated immunisation reference page: Zoster (herpes zoster)
We have recently updated our zoster (also known as shingles) reference page.
Zoster is the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in people who have previously had varicella (chickenpox) infection. Zoster presents with a painful blistering rash. The most common complication of zoster is post-herpetic neuralgia.
In response to queries that have arisen since the new national Shingrix program commenced, the updated page provides more information about:
- vaccine side effects
- special risk group eligibility for people with blood cancers
- pre-vaccination screening for Shingrix.
Updated immunisation reference page: Tetanus
We have recently updated our tetanus reference page.
Tetanus is caused when exotoxins from the bacteria Clostridium Tetani enter the bloodstream and act on the central nervous system. Symptoms include muscle rigidity and painful spasms.
The new reference page includes new details on tetanus epidemiology, and detailed guidance on tetanus vaccination and the appropriate tetanus-prevention management of tetanus-prone wounds.