Year 10 students will receive free vaccinations against the deadly meningococcal B disease under a new government-funded program set to begin on January 1 next year.
The government has allocated $9 million to expand the National Immunisation Program (NIP), adding protection against the meningococcal B strain to the existing free vaccines covering strains A, C, W and Y.
Meningococcal B is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can lead to severe illness, permanent injury, or death within just 24 to 36 hours. Victoria has recorded four cases this year and 18 cases over the past 12 months.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, up to one in 10 people infected with meningococcal disease die, while one in five survivors suffer long-term health complications.
RACGP Victoria chair Dr Anita Muñoz welcomed the initiative, describing the vaccine as essential protection for teenagers who are particularly vulnerable to the disease. She said it was unacceptable for adolescents in a developed country to die from a preventable illness.
Previously, the vaccine was only available privately through GPs, costing families hundreds of dollars and requiring multiple doses, creating a major barrier to uptake.
Symptoms of meningococcal disease include rash, fever, headache, nausea, diarrhoea, drowsiness, muscle and joint pain, neck stiffness, cold hands and feet, and difficulty walking or talking.
Dr Muñoz also urged the government to expand funding to cover infants and additional age groups, noting that babies are also at high risk of contracting the disease.
Health Minister Harriet Shing said the program is currently funded only for Year 10 students, although the government is exploring additional funding options for broader coverage in the future.
The announcement carried special significance for Melbourne mother Norliah Syer-Peterson, whose son Levi died suddenly from meningococcal B last year. Since his death, she has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness and push for government-funded vaccinations.
In December, Ms Syer-Peterson presented a petition with more than 41,000 signatures to parliament calling for free access to the vaccine. She said her mission was to help prevent other families from suffering the same tragedy.
Dr Muñoz praised Ms Syer-Peterson for playing a crucial role in driving the change, saying no family should have to experience the devastating impact of meningococcal B.
