Immunisations & Vaccinations at The Surgery at Jerra
At The Surgery at Jerra, we are committed to safeguarding your health through expert immunisations and vaccinations. Our dedicated practice nurses ensure you and your loved ones stay protected with safe, efficient, and evidence-based care.
Immunisation not only protects individuals but also strengthens community health by preventing the spread of disease and, in some cases, contributing to the eradication of serious illnesses.
Why Immunisation Matters
The National Immunisation Programme is one of Australia’s most important public health initiatives, significantly reducing the prevalence of infectious diseases. While many illnesses have become rare thanks to vaccination, new and emerging diseases continue to pose risks worldwide. Staying up to date with immunisations is vital for long-term protection.
Our Immunisation & Vaccination Services
Our practice nurses administer a wide range of immunisations, including:
- Childhood immunisations
- Flu vaccinations
- Travel vaccinations
- Catch-up vaccinations for school or work requirements
- Other adult immunisations as per national guidelines
Who Should Get a Flu Shot?
A flu vaccination is recommended for everyone but is especially important if you:
- Have asthma, diabetes, heart/lung disease or other chronic conditions
- Are pregnant
- Are 65 or older
- Live with or care for someone at high risk
- Have a weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV or cancer
- Are under 5 years old (especially under 2 but older than 6 months)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
Travel Vaccinations
If you’re planning overseas travel, we offer a range of vaccinations tailored to your needs.
More Than Just Vaccines: The Importance of a Pre-Travel Consultation
While vaccinations play a key role in travel health, they are just one part of a comprehensive pre-travel medical consultation. Travel vaccines include all relevant immunisations—not just those preventing diseases commonly associated with overseas travel.
It’s important to remember that there is no single ‘correct’ list of vaccines for any destination. Instead, recommendations should be customised to your itinerary, planned activities, and individual health risks.
Types of Travel Vaccines
Travel-related immunisations fall into three main categories:
- Routine Vaccinations – Standard vaccines that everyone should have, regardless of travel plans (e.g., measles, tetanus, influenza).
- Recommended Travel Vaccinations – Additional vaccines based on your destination, activities, and risk of disease exposure (e.g., typhoid, hepatitis A, Japanese encephalitis).
- Required Vaccinations – Vaccines mandated by the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 or specific entry requirements for certain countries (e.g., yellow fever for travel to parts of Africa and South America).
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your trip, book a pre-travel consultation with your GP at least one month before departure. Our team will assess your specific health needs and provide personalised recommendations for a safe and healthy journey.
How It Works
- Book Your Pre-travel consultation – Schedule your GP consultation by booking online or calling the practice on 02 6255 8112.
- Book Your Appointment – Once you’ve completed your pre-travel consult, you’ll know when to book an appointment with one of our practice nurses. This cannot be done online.
- Consultation & Assessment – One of our experienced nurses will assess and guide you through the process
- Vaccination Administration – Your immunisation will be administered safely and efficiently
- Post-Vaccination Care – We’ll provide advice on any follow-up requirements or side effects
Protect Yourself, Your Family & Your Community
Vaccinations are a simple yet powerful way to prevent illness and contribute to a healthier future. Book your immunisation appointment today and stay protected.
FAQs
Are immunisations safe?
Yes, immunisations are safe, and our practice follows strict safety protocols to ensure the highest standards of care. All vaccines at The Surgery at Jerra are administered by trained professionals under the guidance of a GP or by the doctor themself.
Our nurses complete an immunisation course accredited by Health Education Services Australia (HESA), in line with the National Immunisation Education Framework for Health Professionals. This ensures they have the most up-to-date knowledge and skills to safely administer vaccines.
Your safety and well-being are our top priority, and we are committed to providing trusted, evidence-based immunisation services for you and your family.
Vaccination Side Effects & Aftercare
Are there any side effects from vaccinations?
Yes, immunisations are safe and effective, but like all medications, they can have some side effects. Most reactions are mild and go away quickly.
What are common side effects after vaccination?
You may experience minor side effects, including:
- A mild fever (less than 38.5°C)
- Pain, redness, itching, swelling, or burning where the needle was given
- Children may become grizzly, unsettled, unhappy, or sleepy
- Teenagers and adults may feel faint or have muscle aches
What should I do after my vaccination?
- Rest and stay hydrated
- Apply a cold compress to the injection site if sore
- Take paracetamol if needed for pain or fever
- Monitor for any reactions
When should I seek medical advice?
Contact a doctor or go to the hospital if:
- Pain or fever isn’t eased by paracetamol
- Side effects are severe, getting worse, or not going away
When should I seek urgent medical attention?
In rare cases, a severe reaction like anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) or seizure may occur. Call 000 or go to the nearest hospital immediately if this happens.
💡 Our practice nurse will advise you if there are any additional side effects specific to your vaccination or immunisation.
How do I know which vaccines I need for overseas travel?
The vaccines you need for travel depend on several factors, including your destination, planned activities, length of stay, and personal health risks. There is no one-size-fits-all list, which is why a pre-travel consultation with your GP is essential.
During your consultation, your GP will assess:
- Routine vaccines – Standard immunisations recommended for all Australians (e.g., measles, tetanus, influenza).
- Recommended travel vaccines – Additional protection based on your destination and activities (e.g., typhoid, hepatitis A, Japanese encephalitis).
- Required vaccines – Some countries mandate vaccines for entry, such as yellow fever for parts of Africa and South America.
To ensure you’re fully protected, book an appointment at least one month before departure. This allows enough time for vaccines to take effect and for any required doses to be completed.
For more information or to schedule a travel health consultation, book online.
Can children also receive immunisations at The Surgery at Jerra?
Yes! Our experienced practice nurses provide a full range of childhood immunisations in line with the National Immunisation Program (NIP) schedule. These vaccinations help protect children from serious diseases such as measles, whooping cough, and meningococcal disease.
We understand that immunisations can be a big event for little ones (and their parents!), so our team creates a calm and supportive environment to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
You can book your child’s immunisation appointment by calling one of our friendly receptionists. If you have any questions about vaccine schedules or requirements, our team is happy to assist.
Is it necessary to book an appointment in advance?
We highly recommend booking in advance to ensure availability and streamline your visit.
What sets The Surgery at Jerra apart in terms of immunisation services?
At The Surgery at Jerra, we go beyond simply administering vaccines—we prioritise expert care, patient comfort, and community health. Here’s what makes our immunisation services stand out:
- Experienced & Qualified Nurses – Our practice nurses complete accredited immunisation training and follow strict safety protocols to ensure vaccines are administered with the highest standard of care.
- Comprehensive Vaccine Range – We offer a full suite of immunisations, including childhood vaccines, flu shots, travel vaccinations, and catch-up immunisations for school and work.
- Patient-Centred Approach – We create a calm and supportive environment, especially for children and those who may feel anxious about vaccinations.
- Convenience & Accessibility – Book your immunisation appointment easily online through HotDoc, with appointments available at flexible times to suit busy schedules.
- Commitment to Public Health – Immunisation isn’t just about individual protection—it helps safeguard the entire community by preventing the spread of disease and contributing to long-term disease eradication.
When it comes to protecting your health, you’re in safe hands at The Surgery at Jerra.