Vaccination Programs

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS (15:08): My question is directed to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing. Will the minister update the council—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS: Well, neither have you!

The PRESIDENT: Order! Ask your question, please, the Hon. Mr Dawkins.

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS: My question is directed to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing. Will the minister update the council on vaccination programs in South Australia?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (15:08): I thank the honourable member for his question. I might actually do it in two parts, if you don't mind. One is in relation to meningococcal B. Last year, the Marshall Liberal government established a vaccine program for South Australians against meningococcal B. The program was developed by an expert working group made up of clinicians and immunisation experts. Based on that expert advice, we launched the nation's first meningococcal B immunisation program and it targeted two particular cohorts. Free meningococcal B vaccines are provided to infants between six weeks and four years of age, and at year 10.

In an international first, a program was put in place for adolescents and young people between the ages of 17 and 21. Following further work by our clinicians, this catch-up program, which was due to finish this calendar year, will now be extended until the end of February next year. This will provide an opportunity for better protection to this demographic. They are more highly at risk than many any other demographics, but at the same time they are also less likely to avail themselves of programs being delivered for their protection. An awareness campaign will be rolled out along with the extension to ensure as many young people as possible take up the opportunity to protect themselves from what can be a terrible disease.

In 2019, we have seen six South Australian adults contract meningococcal B. We know they are at risk and we are acting to protect them. The Marshall Liberal government is proud of delivering this world-leading program, and we are working in other areas of immunisation to ensure that South Australians are given the opportunity to be vaccinated, both themselves and for their loved ones.

In the area of flu vaccines, the vaccines advisory council is looking at a proposal to lower the age of children to whom pharmacists can administer the flu vaccine. Under current regulations, pharmacists can give flu vaccines outside of the national immunisation program to children 16 years and above. The council will provide advice around the lowering of this age to 10 years. This will make vaccinations easier on families who might otherwise have to schedule in a visit to their GP as well as a visit to the pharmacy if they have children who fall into both categories. The Marshall Liberal government is committed to delivering better primary and preventive health care. These vaccine programs are a clear example of that commitment being delivered every day.