New MMR vaccine to include chickenpox
A new combined vaccine (MMRV) which covers four diseases will be offered to children at 18 months of age from July 1.
Children currently being vaccinated against common childhood diseases receive a chickenpox (varicella) shot at 18 months of age then a combined shot to cover measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) at age four.
“You won’t need a script to get the vaccine. Just make an appointment with your doctor or immunisation clinic,” federal Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said this morning. “The new combination vaccine protects against four common childhood illnesses ... reducing the number of vaccinations for children.”
The minister was launching the 10th edition of the Australian Immunisation Handbook in Sydney.
The handbook outlines the latest updates, policies and practices for all members of the health industry.
Ms Plibersek said she hoped it would help everyone - particularly parents - make informed choices about immunisation.
Professor Terry Nolan, chair of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, said the federal government should be congratulated on the new move.
“Australians are considered the benchmark for immunisation programs around the world,” he said.
