Does the Emergency Department Have a Role in Immunisation? Yes-But Not as a Routine Vaccine Clinic

EDs are not routine immunisation settings, yet they often provide care for patients whose immunisation needs may be unrecognised, unmet or not recently reviewed. This is particularly relevant for people who experience fragmented access to healthcare, vulnerability, language or cultural barriers, or who have questions or concerns about immunisation. Immunisation care in emergency departments should be opportunistic and proportionate rather than framed as universal vaccine delivery. For emergency clinicians, the practical task is to assess where a presentation reveals an immunisation-related need and respond in a way that fits the patient, clinical presentation and local service capacity. This may include administering an indicated vaccine, providing education, addressing concerns, documenting unmet need or supporting follow-up with relevant immunisation services in the community. Consistent with the National Immunisation Strategy 2025-2030, a team-based approach is important to support immunisation care in ED settings.