Childhood vaccination coverage is rising, with the latest National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) influenza data reporting a national increase of children vaccinated with at least one influenza vaccine.

In Victoria, cases of influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are increasing, while respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases remain high after peaking in July. Health service visits for respiratory illnesses have also been increasing.

Every patient consultation provides an opportunity to review a patient’s immunisation history and vaccination status, while talking through any questions or concerns they may have about vaccination.

The purpose of this activity is to ensure that patients with both a mental health and chronic disease diagnosis are identified and proactively offered guidance and support to register with MyMedicare, improving care coordination and access to relevant incentives and services.

Recent vaccine supply and distribution issues have caused temporary vaccine shortages of the Capvaxive ® (pneumococcal) vaccine.

Throughout July and August, all Australians aged 50 will receive a letter, from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, about reducing their dementia risk. Some patients may bring the letter or a dementia risk assessment report to appointments to ask questions or seek support.

The purpose of this activity is to ensure patients with a mental health diagnosis (particularly high-risk mental health patients, e.g. bipolar disorder and a Mental Health Treatment Plan) that require phone (level C or D) and/or videoconference longer appointments (level C, D or E) are identified and proactively offered MyMedicare registration supporting continuity of care and improved outcomes.

Are you a First Nations carer supporting a loved one affected by alcohol, other drugs, or mental health challenges? Join Windana’s free monthly First Peoples’ Carers Program, funded by SEMPHN, and connect with others in a safe and supportive space.

Avian influenza (bird flu) is a disease caused by different strains of the bird flu virus that can spread between wild and domestic birds. Bird flu continues to pose a low risk to human health, with no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission.