Vaccination Awareness 2026

Published on 03 March 2026

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Diseases like measles, flu, and whooping cough are circulating in our community. The Victorian Chief Health Officer has recently issued an alert about increased risk of measles in Victoria.

Vaccination is a safe way to protect you and your loved ones from serious disease. It's important to get recommended vaccines on-time and in line with the government schedule so your family is protected when it's most important.

Measles

  • Children today receive two doses of measles vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age.
  • Children who will be travelling overseas can get an early dose of measles vaccine from 6 months of age.
  • Adults should check if they’ve had two doses of measles vaccine in their lifetime – free boosters are available to anyone who hasn’t.

Whooping cough (pertussis)

  • The whooping cough vaccine is very effective at preventing disease, but only lasts for 5-10 years.
  • Adults should make sure they are up-to-date with whooping cough vaccine.
  • Some combination vaccines given for tetanus also contain whooping cough, and some don’t – make sure you’re covered for both.

Influenza (flu)

  • Flu can cause serious illness, particularly in children under 5 years, adults over 65 years, and people with immunocompromise.
  • The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent serious illness.
  • Flu vaccine is available each year from April, and is funded for people in certain risk categories.

What to do

  • Review your Immunisation History Statement and childhood vaccination records to check that you’re up to date with measles, whooping cough, and flu vaccination.
  • If you’re not sure, contact Darebin immunisation service or your GP for assistance.
  • If you need a vaccine, make a plan to get vaccinated and keep yourself and your community safe.

Darebin council immunisation service runs free immunisation sessions across the municipality for babies, children, and adults.

For session dates and times, visit our Immunisations page.

For more info and expert advice, call 03 8470 8562 or email immunise@darebin.vic.gov.au

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