Medically at-risk groups and immunisation
Some people may need additional vaccinations to protect themselves and other people they come into contact with.
For further information about COVID-19 vaccine speak to your doctor and visit Coronavirus (COVID-19)
People with reduced immunity
Some people may have reduced immunity due to disease or treatment, such as someone without a functioning spleen or chemotherapy patients. Your doctor or vaccine service provider will provide advice on any additional vaccines, including COVID-19.
Children
Children with reduced immunity may require additional Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccinations. Talk to your doctor for more information.
Premature babies
Premature babies may require additional vaccines for:
Your doctor or vaccine service provider will provide advice on any additional vaccines.
Influenza
An annual influenza vaccination is funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for the following groups:
- individuals aged six months and older with medical conditions which increase the influenza disease complications (for a full list go to NCIRS Influenza Vaccines Fact Sheet) and the ATAGI advice
- all children from six months to less than five years of age
- all adults aged 65 years and older
- pregnant women
- all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
To receive your influenza vaccination, visit your local doctor or immunisation provider. It is important to note that while the vaccine is free, a consultation fee may apply.
People at risk of tuberculosis
Some population groups and visitors to high-risk countries are at higher risk of tuberculosis and may require vaccination.
Read more about tuberculosis and immunisation (this information is also available in other languages.)