Vaccination
About the human swine flu vaccine
The human swine flu vaccine (Panvax) is now available to all Western Australians aged 10 years and over.
It is hoped that the vaccine will become available to children aged between 6 months and 9 years later in the year, once information on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine in younger children is available.
Vaccination is voluntary, but everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their families from human swine flu.
People at increased risk of severe illness from influenza and people who care for the sick are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. These people include:
- front line health care and community care workers who have direct contact with patients
- pregnant women
- adults and children aged 10 years and over, who have underlying chronic medical conditions such as asthma, cancers, HIV, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney failure
- people who are obese with a body mass index (BMI) over 35
- Indigenous people, and remote and isolated communities with vulnerable people
- children in special schools aged 10 years and above
- parents and guardians of children aged 0-6 months
For more information about the vaccine see pandemic vaccine questions and answers (external site).
Where to get the vaccine
Metropolitan WA
The vaccine is available in metropolitan WA from traditional immunisation providers including GP clinics and Aboriginal Medical Services.
The vaccine is free, however you may be charged a consultation fee by your GP. Some GPs may provide bulk billing, or you will be able to claim most of the consultation fee through Medicare.
Before making an appointment with your GP it is recommended you check they have the vaccine available.
For further information, call the national hotline on 180 2007.
Country WA
The vaccine is available in country WA at:- GP clinics
- Aboriginal Medical Services
- Community Health clinics
The vaccine is free, however you may be charged a consultation fee by your GP. Some GPs may provide bulk billing, or you will be able to claim most of the consultation fee through Medicare.
Before making an appointment with your GP it is recommended you check they have the vaccine available.
Please contact your local Public Health Unit for further information on where to get vaccinated in your region.
Gascoyne Population Health Unit |
Geraldton Population Health Unit |
Great Southern Population Health Unit |
Kalgoorlie-Boulder Population Health Unit |
Kimberley Population Health Unit |
Pilbara Population Health Unit |
South West Population Health Unit |
Wheatbelt Public Health Unit |