This resource provides easy-to-read information on common reactions that may occur after vaccinations. It has has been reprinted and hard copies can now be ordered.

https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/following-vaccination-what-to-expect-and-what-to-do

From Monday, 29 April 2024, the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP) Program will expand, allowing pharmacies to claim payment for administering National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines in residential aged care and disability homes. The vaccines able to be administered are subject to state or territory requirements and legislation. Additionally, NIPVIP payments will be indexed starting 1 July 2024.

The Program Rules are being updated to reflect these changes.

Further information on off-site vaccination can be found here and information on the NIPVIP program can be found here.

The Minister's announcement on expanded funding for pharmacist administration of vaccines in new settings can be found here.

Please be advised that the NSW Immunisation Unit expects to receive additional supplies of Shingrix® vaccines from today and will be opening ordering as soon as they are able.

The letter below will be sent out today to Immunisation Providers advising of same.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) - Information for GPs [27 March 2024]

There has been a rise in Pertussis (‘whooping cough’) cases in NSW after circulating at very low levels during the pandemic.

Pertussis is caused by Bordetella pertussis and spreads mainly through respiratory droplets.

Pertussis outbreaks usually occur every few years as population immunity wanes. Notifications of people with pertussis in NSW are starting to increase from a very low level and are expected to increase further.

Infants aged under 6 months are at greatest risk of severe disease, hospitalisation and death.

Consider pertussis and order a PCR test for people with a compatible illness, even if fully vaccinated.

Ensure that all patients are up to date with recommended vaccinations; this is especially important for:

• pregnant women, who should be vaccinated between 20-32 weeks gestation (ideally at 28 weeks) to provide antibodies to their infant for protection in the first few months of life
• infants and their siblings
• adults who care for infants under 6 months who have not received a booster in the last 10 years.
• Refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook for details.

The Authorised Nurse Immuniser and Authorised Midwife Immunisers Policy Directive (PD2024_004) has been rescinded and replaced with the newly developed NSW Authorised Registered Nurse/Midwife Vaccination Standards (the Standards). Authority and Standards for RNs and Midwifes

Key updates

• The mandatory conditions which Authorised Nurse/Midwife Immunisers (ANIs) must comply with to ensure effective and efficient immunisation service delivery are now outlined in the Standards. These conditions have not changed for ANIs working in NSW Health, the requirements in the Standards remain consistent with the previous policy.
• The rescinding of PD2024_004 and the creation of the Standards mandate that all ANIs in NSW including those working in primary care or private practice, who initiate and administer a vaccine comply with both the Authority and the Standards.
• The updated Authority and new Standards include products that protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) including the new RSV vaccines and RSV monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), Beyfortus ™ (nirsevimab). ANIs must comply with the requirements in the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAG) recommendations when administering these immunisations. Information on the NSW RSV vulnerable babies program is available on the NSW Health webpage: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/respiratory-syncytial-virus.aspx

World Immunisation Week 2024: Humanly Possible: Immunization for All

World Immunization Week 2024 (who.int)

2024 seasonal influenza vaccination information for immunisation providers

If you're planning a trip away this Easter or school holidays, protect yourself and others from illnesses like COVID-19 and influenza.

Remember to practise protective behaviours such as:

• getting vaccinated

• washing your hands regularly

• coughing or sneezing into your elbow or a tissue

• staying home and rescheduling visits to family and friends when you're unwell.

If you do get sick these holidays, you can book an appointment with a GP using the Healthdirect Service Finder.

For more information on COVID-19 and influenza, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

Learn more about COVID-19 and Influenza

Beyfortus^™ (nirsevimab) – NSW Health RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vulnerable babies program

NSW Health RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vulnerable babies program will be implemented in a phased approach that prioritises the most vulnerable babies and infants.

Infants who are vulnerable to severe illness from RSV are eligible for a free monoclonal antibody Beyfortus^™ (nirsevimab) immunisation. RSV monoclonal antibodies are a passive immunisation that provides antibodies directly to the infant so they have immediate protection against RSV. The trade name of nirsevimab is Beyfortus^™.

Beyfortus^™ (nirsevimab) will be initially offered to hospitalised infants in 2024 who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• babies born before 37 weeks gestation and after 31 October 2023
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies born after 31 October 2023
• other infants living with specific chronic and complex health conditions.

https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/respiratory-syncytial-virus.aspx

The Australian Immunisation Handbook has been updated with information about COVID-19, vaccines and recommendations for vaccination.

Link: COVID-19 | The Australian Immunisation Handbook (health.gov.au)