Australian children will now have stronger protection against pneumococcal with the Australian Government implementing a new and improved vaccine on the National Immunisation Programme (NIP).
The pneumococcal vaccine, Prevenar 20 is available from 1 September nationwide and free of charge through the NIP, offering greater protection for children.
Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection which is especially serious for young children and older people. It can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infection and meningitis.
Prevenar 20 replaces the two pneumococcal vaccines currently used on the NIP for children, Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23. Prevenar 20 protects against more strains of the disease and will be given as a three-dose schedule for most children, and a four-dose schedule for First Nations children, regardless of where they live.
This new vaccine is expected to immunise more than 260,000 children across Australia each year. Without listing it on the NIP, the pneumococcal vaccine would cost parents over $300 each.
Minister Butler said, “Prevenar 20 is a shield against pneumococcal disease, and our government is proud to make it freely available to Australian families. By simplifying the schedule and introducing a more effective vaccine, we’re making it easier for parents and health professionals to keep kids safe. This change reflects the expert advice of ATAGI and our commitment to ensuring the National Immunisation Programme delivers the best outcomes for children.”
