Pre-immunization checklist

Before you are immunized#

Before you have a vaccination, your doctor or immunization provider will ask you a number of questions. This helps make sure you have the information you need before deciding to be immunized, and helps work out which vaccines you need based on your health, age, lifestyle and occupation. This checklist will help you prepare, so you know what to expect and what information to give your doctor or clinic staff.

Who provides immunization#

Where you can be immunized varies from place to place. Providers may include local clinics, doctors, specially qualified nurses, community health services, pharmacies, hospitals and travel clinics. Some vaccines may be free for eligible people through public vaccination programs, while others are provided at a cost. Check what applies in your area.

What to tell your doctor or clinic nurse#

Before going ahead with any immunization, tell your doctor or nurse if you, or the person about to be immunized:

• is unwell on the day of vaccination
• has a disease that lowers immunity (for example leukaemia, cancer, or severe combined immunodeficiency)
• is having treatment that lowers immunity, such as oral steroid medicines (for example cortisone or prednisone), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological DMARDs, radiotherapy or chemotherapy
• is an infant of a mother who received highly immunosuppressive therapy during pregnancy
• is a baby who has had intussusception, or a congenital abnormality that may predispose to it
• has had a severe reaction following any vaccine
• has any severe allergies (to anything)
• has had any vaccine in the past month
• has had an injection of immunoglobulin, or received any blood products or a whole blood transfusion in the past year
• is pregnant, is planning a pregnancy, or is anticipating parenthood
• is a parent, grandparent or carer of an infant aged up to 6 months
• has a past history of Guillain-Barré syndrome
• was a preterm baby born at less than 32 weeks gestation, or with a low birth weight
• has a chronic illness
• has a bleeding disorder
• does not have a functioning spleen
• lives with someone who has a disease or treatment that lowers immunity (for example cancer, radiotherapy or chemotherapy)

Doctors and immunization staff thoroughly screen everyone before giving a vaccine, including checking that enough time has passed since any previous vaccines.

Make sure you have the information you need#

There is a lot of information available about immunization, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. You may want to ask:

• What are the benefits of this immunization?
• What are the risks to my health?
• What should I do if there is a reaction to a vaccine?

Do not be afraid to ask your doctor or clinic nurse if you are unsure. If you have young children, a child health nurse or paediatrician can also help.

Before you agree to any vaccine, your immunization provider should give you the information you need to understand what is happening, answer your questions and discuss your options. This information must be given in a language you can understand, so if you need an interpreter or a cultural support person, your provider should offer you one. You should receive enough information about the risks and benefits, including any side effects, how common they are, and what you can do about them, to make an informed decision.

Consent#

You must consent, in writing or verbally, before a vaccine can be given. Parents or guardians may be asked to complete a consent form for children under 18, whether or not they choose to have their child vaccinated.

Your consent must be voluntary, without any pressure, coercion or manipulation, and you do not have to give it until your provider has explained the risks and benefits. Remember, you can take your time before making a decision.

Keeping records#

Your vaccine provider should give you a record of the vaccinations received to keep at home, and may also notify an immunization register where one exists. Keeping an accurate record matters, because one of the most common reasons children fall behind is that parents simply forget, especially as vaccinations become more spread out. Ask your provider how to check your records and follow up on any missed doses.

Where to find more information#

The best place to start is with your doctor. You can also ask your clinic nurse or specialist. When looking online, stick to reliable sources such as your regional health authority and recognised public health services.

Key points#

• Immunizations are available to protect you from preventable diseases.
• The information you are given should include any side effects, how common they are, and what you can do about them.
• You do not have to give your consent until your immunization provider has explained the risks and benefits.
• Keep your vaccination records up to date, including when you enrol your child in childcare, kindergarten or school.

Where to get help#