New immunisation reference page: Typhoid

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever are bacterial infections collectively known as enteric fever, caused by the bacteria Salmonella enterica subspecies serovars Typhi and Paratyphi A, B and C. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and if untreated, can lead to serious complications or even death. They can include prolonged fever, abdominal symptoms or bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream).

Our new reference page outlines the signs and symptoms of typhoid, transmission routes and epidemiology, as well as the vaccines available for disease prevention when travelling to typhoid endemic areas.

To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: Typhoid


New immunisation reference page: Mandatory vaccine directions in Victoria

A vaccine mandate means that proof of vaccination, or an authorised medical exemption, is required in certain settings. In our new reference page, we provide information on the vaccine mandates affecting Victorians, including COVID-19 and influenza directions and “No jab, no play” and “No jab, no pay” legislations. Also included is information on the responsibility of the employee/service provider/individual and medical exemptions.  

For further information, click on the link below: 

MVEC: Mandatory vaccine direction in Victoria


Updated MVEC immunisation reference page: Kawasaki disease and immunisation

MVEC’s reference page on Kawasaki disease and immunisation has recently been updated. This resource outlines:  

  • what Kawasaki disease is 
  • vaccine recommendations for providers 
  • specific precautions to take when vaccinating 

To view the page in full, follow the link below: 

MVEC: Kawasaki disease and immunisation 


Updated MVEC immunisation reference page: Meningococcal

MVEC’s meningococcal immunisation reference page has been updated. This resource details: 

  • meningococcal disease information, including symptoms and epidemiology 
  • recommendations for meningococcal ACWY vaccination 
  • recommendations for meningococcal B vaccination 

To view the page in full, follow the link below:

MVEC: Meningococcal 


New immunisation reference page: Febrile seizures (Febrile convulsions)

Febrile seizures are typically triggered by a sudden rise in temperature and more commonly occur in very young children.  Febrile seizures can be classified as simple or complex, with 1 in 30 children experiencing a febrile seizure at some point during their childhood.  

Although vaccines can cause fevers, febrile seizures following vaccination are not common.  

Our new reference page provides an overview of febrile seizures and outlines the recommendations following a vaccine proximate seizure.  

To read more follow the link below: 

MVEC: Febrile seizures (Febrile convulsions)


New immunisation reference page: International Network of Special Immunization Services

The International Network of Special Immunization Services (INSIS) is a coordinated international collaboration of vaccine safety surveillance systems that aims to promote confidence in the safety of vaccines.

Our new reference page provides an overview of the international network including the objectives for the international collaboration, funding, and key Australian representatives.

To read more follow the link below:

MVEC: International Network of Special Immunization Services


New immunisation reference page: Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a rare but potentially life-threatening acute illness. It is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae and is ​characterised by a pseudo-membrane forming over the pharangeal area resulting in pain, inflammation, difficulty swallowing and a hoarse voice. In instances where the pseudo-membrane dislodges, the airway can become obstructed.

Our new reference page outlines the signs and symptoms of diphtheria, as well as the vaccines available for disease prevention.

To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: Diphtheria

 


ATAGI clinical guidance on Japanese encephalitis virus vaccines

ATAGI have released new guidance for healthcare providers ​regarding the administration of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccines.​ These recommendations follow on from earlier advice from CDNA identifying the groups at highest risk of disease and who should be prioritised for vaccination.

The guidance includes:

  • vaccine brand and dosing recommendations
  • priority populations
  • advice for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • booster doses
  • co-administration with other vaccines
  • ​common and expected side effects following vaccination

To read the ATAGI recommendations in full, please click on the link below:
ATAGI clinical guidance on Japanese encephalitis virus vaccines

For further information on JEV, including background on disease and common vaccine questions, please click on the link below:
MVEC: JEV


Updated immunisation reference page: Rotavirus

MVEC's Rotavirus immunisation reference page has been updated with further information on:

  • rotavirus disease
  • vaccine dosing schedules and age limits
  • common and rarer side effects, as well as their management
  • precautions and contraindications to vaccination. 

To view the page in full, follow the link below:

MVEC: Rotavirus


Updated immunisation reference pages: Influenza and Influenza vaccine: frequently asked questions

MVEC’s influenza resources have been updated in line with ATAGI's advice on seasonal influenza vaccines in 2022. Information contained in these pages includes dosing and brand advice (including information on cell-based vaccines), co-administration of influenza vaccines with other vaccines, recommendations in pregnancy, immunosuppressed individuals and the elderly, as well as eligibility for funded doses.

Our FAQ’s provide answers to commonly asked questions relating to influenza vaccines and their administration.

For more information please follow the links below:

MVEC: Influenza
MVEC: Influenza vaccine: frequently asked questions


About MVEC

The Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre (MVEC) is an educational website, developed with the aim of providing up-to-date immunisation information for both healthcare professionals and members of the public. We are based at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI), a research organisation, and are affiliated with SAEFVIC (Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Vaccination in the Community), the Victorian Vaccine Safety Service.