Vaccines essential this winter

The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is encouraging all Australians to make sure they’re up-to-date with all of their immunisations leading into winter – not just the Covid-19 vaccination.

This, they say, will help to protect the most vulnerable in the community.

“During the pandemic, consumers of all ages have come forward in large numbers to get vaccinated against Covid-19,” ACN CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN said.

“However, Covid-19 is just one of many vaccines that play a vital role in preventing serious illness.”

According to Adjunct Professor Ward vaccines against HPV, influenza, measles, pneumococcal and shingles are the reason these diseases “are greatly reduced or eliminated amongst those most at risk”.

“Australia has leading childhood immunisation rates, but their effectiveness reduces over time, meaning regular visits to trusted nursing or health professionals are needed to ensure immunity is maintained as we age,” she said.

“As the colder months loom, now is the time to get vaccinated to ensure you and your loved ones are protected.”