THE NT Government is providing free meningococcal B vaccination for infants, aged six weeks to two years, and teens aged 14 to 19 years.
The program, which took effect on 01 Jan, marks a major milestone in safeguarding Territory families from this rare but potentially devastating disease, which has caused three deaths in the past five years.
About 4,200 babies and 18,500 adolescents across the Territory can now access the free vaccine.
It was previously only available for free to Aboriginal children or those with specific medical conditions.
"This initiative delivers on our promise to ensure Territory families have access to vital protection against meningococcal B," said Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
For adolescents, the vaccine is given as two doses at least eight weeks apart and will be provided through the NT School Immunisation Program but is also available from GPs, pharmacies and health clinics.
For infants, the vaccine can be safely administered with other scheduled childhood vaccines as part of the standard National Immunisation Program, from six weeks of age.
NT Health has launched an awareness-raising campaign to promote the vaccine roll-out.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 24 Jan 25
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