Handbook

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent and control infectious diseases. However, even the most effective vaccine is only successful if people have access to vaccines and vaccinate - vaccines don’t save lives, immunisation does. How do we translate vaccine science into effective immunisation policy? How can public health practitioners effectively communicate the benefits of vaccination to the public, particularly in the digital era? How can we ensure equitable access to vaccines within different socioeconomic contexts? What skills do you, as public health professionals, need to support evidence-based immunisation policy decision-making?

In PHCM9050 Immunisation Policy and Practice you will develop an understanding of the complex issues that shape immunisation policy and practice applicable to a range of vaccine-preventable diseases and country contexts. Through the course you will critically analyse key and interrelated components of immunisation policy and their practical application to sustaining successful immunisation programs, including vaccine development, clinical guidelines, methods to monitor and evaluate immunisation program delivery, including immunisation coverage, vaccine effectiveness, and adverse events monitoring, the social and behavioural drivers of immunisation, vaccine equity and access, and strategies to engage communities and address vaccine hesitancy. Through expert lectures, Australian and globally relevant cases studies, and your assessments, you will develop skills in applying the vast immunisation-relevant evidence-base to implementing and evaluating immunisation programs.