FREE MENINGOCOCCAL W VACCINE

Meningococcal disease is a rare but very serious infection that can be fatal. Young people are more likely to get meningococcal disease, but it can affect people of any age. The rate of meningococcal W disease in Tasmania has been higher than in most other parts of Australia since 2016. The best protection is immunisation.

From now to the end of 2018, the meningococcal ACWY vaccine is free for everyone in Tasmania born after 1 August 1997 (babies must be at least six weeks old).  The free vaccine protects against the A, C, W and Y strains of meningococcal disease. Vaccine is available from GPs and some pharmacies.

For further information, visit www.health.tas.gov.au.

To access the Frequently Asked Questions fact sheet issued by DHHS, visit www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/menw.