CHALLENGE
- Despite powerful reasons for high-risk Australians to be vaccinated against influenza, vaccination rates have been historically sub-optimal
- B-M has worked on behalf of the ISG since its 1992 inception, which has included working closely with third party organisations (incl. govt) and clinicians to ensure best practice uptake of influenza vaccination, in line with government guidelines
SOLUTION
- Awareness and uptake of policy and evidence – education campaigns raising awareness of influenza’s severity and benefits of vaccination and treatment
- Policy driven by research – the ISG has developed PBAC submissions and commissioned research influenza’s burden to assist future government policy
- Supported and protected healthcare professionals – the ISG has collaborated with numerous groups to build the body of support for healthcare worker vaccination to create an environment where influenza vaccination is accepted as ‘part of the job’
OUTCOME
Long-term
- Commonwealth funding for 65+
- Australia leads the world with 65+ vaccination rates (79%)
- Establishment of Influenza Alliance (National Asthma Council, Australian Heart Foundation, Diabetes Australia)
- Established joint working group with National Institute of Clinical Studies (NICS) to increase vaccination uptake among healthcare workers and obtained commitment for greater education by govt and professional organisations (i.e. RACGP)
2009 Influenza media launch
- Launch covered in: 26 TV news reports; 130 radio segments; 68 print articles; Audience reach – approx. 14 million Australians