Royal Australasian College of Physicians Immunisation Position Statement

Abstract

Purpose Immunisation against infectious diseases has been more effective in preventing disease and death than any other medical intervention. The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) supports the immunisation policies and programs of the Australian and New Zealand governments for both routine immunisation and specific immunisation of at-risk groups. This policy statement has the following objectives: • To outline the responsibilities of paediatricians and other consultant physicians in regard to immunisation • To identify the current status and emerging challenges of immunisation • To suggest practical approaches for optimising immunisation • To provide links to especially useful information resources, both for health professionals and for the community at large