Immunisation Weekly Update:

Measles alert

There have been 10 cases of measles in NSW since 1 January 2024, including two locally acquired cases. NSW Health released a measles alert on 11 April 2024, reminding health providers to consider measles in people arriving from overseas with fever even if previously vaccinated for measles, and in anyone with fever, cough, conjunctivitis and maculopapular rash. Isolate cases of suspected measles and call Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 to notify and seek advice on testing.

Measles remains common in many parts of the world, with large outbreaks currently occurring in several countries, including India, Pakistan, and Indonesia.

Measles transmission is increasing globally, including in countries that previously eliminated measles such as the United Kingdom and the United States. There is continued risk of measles in NSW due to ongoing global measles outbreaks and international travel.

• Measles vaccination is free in NSW for anyone born during or after 1966 without two documented doses.
• Sydney Health Pathways – Measles pathway
• South Eastern Sydney Health Pathways – Measles pathway

Protect your patients with winter vaccines

With winter coming, it’s important your patients are vaccinated against respiratory viruses. 

Flu and COVID-19, are common viruses in colder months – and vaccination will provide your patients with the greatest protection possible against them.  

Importantly, COVID-19 vaccines can be provided at the same time as a flu vaccine. This makes it quick and easy for your patients to get the protection they need this winter.

Ensuring your patients are vaccinated ahead of the peak season will reduce the risk of them becoming seriously ill. 

Further resources

• NSW Health – 2024 seasonal influenza vaccination information for immunisation providers
• Influenza Vaccination Provider Toolkit
• ATAGI statement on the administration of seasonal influenza vaccines and 2024 Program advice for health professionals
• Consumer factsheet to patients about the 2024 flu vaccine.
• Getting vaccinated against influenza – resource collection
• CESPHN – Influenza webpage

Clinical trial – participants wanted

Sydney Childrens Hospital Network are commencing a Q fever vaccination trial in the coming weeks to investigate the effectiveness and safety of the Q fever vaccine in children aged 10 to 14. Children aged <15 are unable to get the Q fever vaccine under the current guidelines – generally because of a lack of studies in this age group.

See the flyer seeking expressions of interest from healthy volunteers aged 10-14, and also 15-30 year age group for a control group.

These participants would have their study visits performed at our facilities within The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Travel to Sydney will be supported.

Health professionals and case studies wanted  

The Department of Health and Aged Care is developing communication materials to support the 2024 childhood and influenza campaigns. If you’re a health professional and would like to lend your support or voice to the campaigns, email publichealthcomms@health.gov.au to be involved.