Immunisation prevents many illnesses in children and adults.
It provides benefits not only for individuals but also for the health of the wider community – when enough people are immunised, disease spread is reduced.
Immunisation saves lives.
Many immunisations also help limit serious consequences, such as preventing some cancers through vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV).
This vaccine not only prevents genital warts but can also reduce the risk of cervical cancer in women and cancers of the genital area, mouth and throat in men.
This section of the Chief Health Officer report provides information on:
- the extent of immunisation coverage among Victorian children aged five years and under
- amendments to the No Jab No Play Legislation
- meningococcal disease in Victoria
- the immunisation focus on two high-risk groups: gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, and refugees and asylum seekers
Reviewed 17 April 2023