The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has issued a stark warning over a 'deeply concerning' nationwide drop in vaccination rates, blaming the damaging influence of misinformation and anti-science sentiment for eroding public trust.
A Nationwide Decline in Protection
According to a new report titled 'From coverage to concern: a policy analysis of Australia's immunisation decline', released on Monday, immunisation rates have fallen across the board. The decline affects child, adolescent, and adult vaccination programmes, as well as seasonal flu jab uptake.
AMA President, Dr Danielle McMullen, stated that while immunisation prevents between two and three million deaths globally each year, this life-saving progress is now under threat. 'We are seeing increasing global conversations about vaccine hesitancy, and it is putting lives at risk,' Dr McMullen said. 'Unfortunately, Australia is not immune.'
Falling Short of Crucial Targets
Data from the Australian Immunisation Register reveals that coverage has slipped below the government's 95% aspirational target needed for herd immunity against highly infectious diseases.
The current figures are alarming: immunisation coverage for two-year-olds sits at approximately 90%. Rates for one-year-olds and five-year-olds have also decreased, landing at 91.63% and 93.27% respectively.
This marks a dramatic shift from the historical success of vaccination programmes. Since their introduction for children in Australia in 1932, deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases have plummeted by an incredible 99%.
Strained Hospitals and Future Risks
Dr McMullen emphasised that the consequences of this decline are already being felt, threatening public health and placing immense pressure on a healthcare system already in 'logjam'.
'Our hospitals are already operating at or above capacity, and yet nearly 10% of preventable admissions are linked to vaccine-preventable illnesses,' she explained.
The AMA president warned that the issue extends beyond overwhelmed emergency departments. 'Declining coverage risks the re-emergence of serious diseases like measles, with life-altering complications,' Dr McMullen stated.
GPs: The Frontline in Rebuilding Trust
To reverse this dangerous trend, the AMA is pointing to General Practitioners as the solution. Dr McMullen highlighted that GPs are uniquely placed to reassure patients who are uncertain about vaccines.
'They are trusted voices in their communities and play a pivotal role in encouraging vaccination,' she said. 'A simple conversation with your GP can protect your family, strengthen your community, and save lives.'
