Seasonal influenza: Update from CMO 30 July regarding vaccination of children under 5 years of age

The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Jim Bishop AO has made an announcement ceasing the overall suspension of vaccination for healthy children less than five years of age with 2010 seasonal influenza vaccine and recommending the use of either Influvac® (Abbott/Solvay) or Vaxigrip® (Sanofi-Pasteur) in this age group.

Please find attached communication material to accompany the announcement:

Media Statement
ATAGI Advice
ATAGI Statement: Clinical advice for immunisation providers on resumption of the use of 2010 trivalent seasonal vaccines in children less than 5 years of age July 2010.
Summary Table
Letters to General Practitioners

For your information this information will be available at the Immunise Australia website at: www.immunise.health.gov.au.
More information will also be available on the Immunise Australia Hotline at 1800 671 811.