Compliance with three simultaneous vaccinations due at the one visit at 12 months of age in Australia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunisation
• Paediatrics

Background:

• The National Immunisation Program Schedule introduced the meningococcal C conjugate vaccine (Men C) in 2003, recommending three simultaneous vaccinations for Australian children.
• This marked a significant change, necessitating an assessment of simultaneous vaccination uptake at 12 months of age.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the level of simultaneous vaccination at 12 months of age for four cohorts of Australian children.
• To identify factors influencing simultaneous vaccination rates, including jurisdiction, provider type, and Indigenous status.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of vaccination data for four cohorts of Australian children.
• Comparison of simultaneous vaccination rates across different Australian states and territories.
• Examination of vaccination timing based on provider type (e.g., general practitioners) and Indigenous status.

Main Results:

• The percentage of children receiving all three recommended vaccinations simultaneously increased across all jurisdictions over the study period.
• Simultaneous vaccination rates varied by jurisdiction and provider type, with lower rates observed for general practitioner providers.
• Meningococcal C conjugate vaccine (Men C) was the most frequently delayed vaccine; Indigenous children were more likely to receive simultaneous immunisations.

Conclusions:

• While simultaneous vaccination improved, disparities exist across Australian jurisdictions and provider types.
• Children in areas where general practitioners administer most vaccinations are at higher risk of delayed Men C vaccine administration.
• Targeted interventions may be needed to ensure timely and simultaneous immunisation for all Australian children.