The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is urging the New South Wales government to provide free Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccines for vulnerable groups, warning that financial barriers are preventing families from accessing the life-saving immunisation.
MenB is a rare but devastating disease, which can progress quickly and lead to death or disability.
The RACGP is calling for free MenB vaccines for every child aged 2 and under, as well as teenagers aged 15-19 years, to ensure broader protection across the state.
‘Significantly reduce MenB deaths and disability’
“Statistics show it kills 5 to 10% of patients and leaves 10 to 20% of survivors with brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability,” she says.
“Out-of-pocket costs shouldn’t prevent any parents in NSW from protecting their children.  Â
“Prevention is the best solution, and effective vaccines are one of the most important tools we have for keeping our people safe from deadly infections such as these. Â
“In South Australia, the Meningococcal B vaccination program cut rates amongst children by 60%, and by 73% amongst adolescents.
“Queensland and the Northern Territory have also rolled out successful programs and it is time for NSW to match these commitments.”
‘Can’t place a cost on a life or a child’s future’
Meningitis Centre Australia CEO Karen Quick reinforces the urgent need for government action.
“You cannot place a cost on a life or our children’s future,” she says.
“86% of patients simply cannot afford this lifesaving Meningococcal B vaccination, the government can fix this, saving NSW children from death and lifelong disability.”
