The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has thrown its support behind 10 Independent NSW MPs calling on the State Government to boost Meningococcal B vaccination rates.
The push follows a similar RACGP call made earlier this year, when it urged the Government to protect families across the state by providing free Meningococcal B vaccines to at-risk groups, including children aged two-and-under, and every teen aged 15-19-years-old.
RACGP NSW and ACT Chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, backed the call for action.
"By providing the Meningococcal B vaccine free of charge for at-risk groups we can save lives across the state," she said.
"This is a rare but devastating disease, which can progress quickly and lead to death or disability, including young babies. Other governments have already acted to help protect families by rolling out vaccination funding programs, including South Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory, as well as a commitment from the Western Australian Opposition. South Australia's Meningococcal B vaccination program cut rates amongst children by 60%, and by 73% amongst adolescents.
"We have an effective vaccine, but we must do more to boost vaccination rates during a cost-of-living crisis. There's never been a more important time to ensure free access to all at-risk patients.
"This is a disease that must be taken seriously, with statistics showing it kills 5-10% of patients and leaves 10-20% of those who survive with brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability. What is particularly disturbing is that this virus is most devastating for vulnerable kids and young people.
"Prevention, rather than treatment in hospital, is the best solution for saving lives from Meningococcal B. By providing this vaccine for free to certain patient groups we can keep people as safe as possible from harm. There's no need for delay, let's save precious lives at risk."
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