Australian Immunization Rates Reported Decreasing

Children in Australia are falling behind in immunizations, according to a report from the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY).

This new report shows that fully immunized 2-year-olds decreased to 90.5 percent in December 2017.

The rate is down about 2%, from 2008.

Which is far below the Australian government’s immunization objective of 95%.

Stephen Bartos, ARACY chief executive, summarised this report card as "Australia: trying hard, could do better".

The ARACY 2018 Report Card is based on The Nest; an evidence-based policy framework outlining priorities for investment in six areas which must be properly met for a young person to have wellbeing.

But, this ARACY report may not offer the entire story.

According to the Australian government, the immunization coverage for one and five-year-olds has increased since 2008.

In December 2017, the national coverage rates were:

• 94.0 percent of all one-year-olds
• 90.5 percent of all two-year-olds
• 94.0 percent of all five-year-olds

This dip in immunization for 2-year-olds has not been explained by the Australian health leaders.

The Australian National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule is a series of immunizations given at specific times throughout your life.

To make an inquiry to the Australian Department of Health, please email [email protected].