Meningococcal B Vaccinations to be Made Available in the Northern Territory

Strategic Insights -

Ash Lawrence and Camden Smith's seven-year wait will finally come to an end on January 1, as the Northern Territory becomes the third jurisdiction to add meningococcal B vaccinations to its schedule. This move follows the couple's awareness campaign, 'Share a Cino with Skylar', which was sparked by the tragic loss of their two-year-old daughter Skylar to the virus in 2017. The vaccinations will be made free for infants aged six weeks to 12 months, and a free school-based program will also commence from January, providing the vaccine to year nine students.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Northern Territory will add meningococcal B vaccinations to its schedule on January 1, following a seven-year wait.
  • The vaccinations will be made free for infants aged six weeks to 12 months, and a free school-based program will provide the vaccine to year nine students.
  • The program will cost around $500,000 per year, with an additional $500,000 for catch-up vaccinations.
  • There have been 18 cases of meningococcal B in the Northern Territory over the past decade, including three deaths in the past five years.
  • The vaccinations may be distributed through GP clinics and pharmacies in the coming years.
  • The vaccination program is expected to have a significant impact on preventing lifelong complications for children who survive meningitis.
  • Ash and Sally Lawrence's campaign has led to a change in the vaccination schedule, and their story has moved many Territory families.

Statistics:

  • 4200 babies will be eligible for the meningococcal B vaccine.
  • 18500 adolescents will be eligible for the meningococcal B vaccine.
  • The vaccination program will cost around $500,000 per year.
  • 500,000 additional funds will be allocated for catch-up vaccinations.
  • 18 cases of meningococcal B have occurred in the Northern Territory over the past decade.
  • 3 deaths from meningococcal B have occurred in the Northern Territory over the past five years.
  • The vaccinations are expected to be distributed through schools before being made available at GP clinics and pharmacies.

Sources:

  • Chieft Minister Lia Finocchiaro
  • Health Minister Steve Edgington
  • Chief health officer Christine Connors
  • "Share a Cino with Skylar" awareness campaign led by Ash and Sally Lawrence.