Why adult immunisations matter
Vaccinations aren’t just for children, as we move through life, our protection against serious diseases needs refreshing. For adults in Australia, immunisations play a vital role in maintaining health, preventing outbreaks, protecting those around us (including children and older people), and supporting a strong, resilient community.
Australia’s national vaccination schedule is supported by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) and the Australian Immunisation Register, with recommendations tailored for different life-stages, health conditions and travel.
Do adults need vaccinations and when?
At Brecken Health Bunbury, we provide adult vaccination services, whether you’re looking for routine booster shots, travel vaccinations, or specific disease-prevention immunisations. Key groups include:
- Adults who previously completed childhood immunisations but require boosters (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- People with health conditions (such as chronic disease or immune-compromise) needing extra protection (e.g., pneumococcal, influenza, shingles)
- Pregnant women needing vaccinations to protect themselves and their baby (e.g., pertussis, influenza)
- Those planning travel overseas or returning to Australia requiring travel-specific vaccines (e.g., typhoid, yellow fever, hepatitis A/B)
- Anyone who has missed vaccines or whose records are incomplete – it’s never too late to catch up
Our adult vaccination and immunisation service in Bunbury delivers:
- A personalised vaccine review – We check your immunisation history via the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), consider your age, health status, travel plans and any risk factors.
- Administration of recommended vaccines – We stock a wide range of adult vaccines including influenza, tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap), pneumococcal, shingles (herpes zoster), hepatitis A & B, HPV (for eligible adults), and travel-vaccines.
- Expert advice and information – Our GPs or practice nurses explain vaccine benefits, possible side-effects, scheduling and what to expect afterwards.
- Convenient scheduling and records update –We’ll update your AIR record, provide you with a written immunisation record, and can send reminders for future boosters.
- Safe, comfortable clinic experience – Everything administered in a clean, respectful environment with post-vaccination monitoring and follow-up support if needed.
What to expect at your appointment
- Consultation and history review – We’ll ask about your medical history, current health status, allergies and previous vaccines.
- Vaccine recommendations – Based on your circumstances we’ll outline which vaccines you need now, plus any coming boosters.
- Administration – Vaccines are given by a trained nurse or GP. We’ll advise you on after-care (e.g., mild soreness, fever) and when to seek further help.
- Recording and follow-up – Your vaccinations are entered into the AIR, and we’ll give you a personal record for your file and set reminders if applicable.
Book your appointment today
Don’t wait until a disease strikes – boosting your immunity is one of the most effective preventive measures you can take. Call us or book online to arrange an adult immunisation review. At Brecken Health Bunbury, our goal is to help you stay protected, confident and “ready for life”.
Do I really need vaccinations as an adult?
Yes. Immunity from some childhood vaccines wanes over time, new vaccines are developed, and adult-specific risks arise (e.g., travel, pregnancy, underlying health conditions). Adults can still contract and spread serious infections.
Are there any side-effects?
Most side-effects are mild and short-lived (e.g., site soreness, low-grade fever). Serious reactions are rare. Our team will explain the risks and monitor you appropriately.
What about cost and rebates?
A GP will give you the referral to a dermatologist if they feel it is necessary. You can arrange to see a dermatologist without a GP referral, but this will not generally be covered by Medicare. Skin cancer, especially melanoma, should be treated promptly after diagnosis.
Can I get immunised while pregnant?
Yes – certain vaccines are strongly recommended during pregnancy (for example, pertussis and influenza) to protect both mother and baby. We’ll guide you through timing and safety.