Meningococcal disease
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. There are 13 known sub-types (A, B, C, W and Y). In 2016, the main serotypes causing disease in Australia are B and W with variations noted by state. Importantly, they are both potentially vaccine preventable.
We have recently added a resource page for Meningococcal disease and vaccines to provide further information.
MTHFR gene explained
A number of families, consumers and healthcare professionals have been asking MVEC staff about the MTHFR gene (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) and possible adverse events following immunisation [AEFI]. Please refer to our MVEC page for further information.
New Zoster (Shingles) Immunisation Program
From November 2016, Zostavax will be funded under the National Immunisation Program for persons aged 70 years, with catch-up for those aged 71–79 years also funded until October 2021.
For further information, including our new resources please refer to our MVEC page
The Clinical Vaccinology Update 2016
The next CVU will be held on Monday 5th December 2016 from 8.30am to 3:00pm at The SPOT in Carlton (part of University of Melbourne). Tickets are now for sale via our events page. We look forward to seeing you there!
Victorian immunisation schedule app
Vicvax is our new Victorian immunisation schedule app for smart phones. Please refer to the MVEC homepage for details
Allergy and immunisation reference page
For further information about allergies and the immunisation process please refer to our new reference page Allergy and immunisation
Needle phobia reference page
We have created a new immunisation reference page with information and resources to assist in the immunisation of those experiencing needle phobias. Please refer to our Needle Phobia page for further information.
Measles alert
Several cases of measles have recently been confirmed in Victoria. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause rash, fevers, cough and in severe cases can result in fatal complications including pneumonia and brain inflammation. Please refer to MVEC for further information on Measles or the Chief Health Officer Alert
New vaccine hesitancy resources
MVEC has created an immunisation reference page with reliable information for those hesitant about the immunisation process. Please refer to the following LINK for more information
The power of vaccinating pregnant women- an interesting article
"Vaccinating pregnant women is crucial, and a way of plugging the "immunisation loophole" and protecting their unborn babies"
Below is a link to an interesting article, published by the BBC, outlining the importance of vaccinating pregnant women
http://www.bbc.com/news/health-36335609