‘Boost’ for immunisation as measles linked to city

Beanbags, puppets and books are helping improve immunisation numbers while educating children in a new project at Newcomb.
Barwon Health, City Hall and Geelong Regional Library Corporation have joined forces in the initiative at the suburb’s new site for immunisations.
The authorities have launched the site as health professionals deal with an outbreak of measles linked to Geelong.
The Linking Learning partnership operates above Newcomb Library twice a month, with a librarian engaging children after immunisations.
The project uses literacy to build speech and language skills in children from birth to 12 years.
The new “one-stop shop” combining maternal child services and a library should boost immunisation rates in Geelong’s eastern suburbs, said Barwon Health.
“Being located near the Newcomb Central shops is convenient for parents,” said immunisation service co-ordinator Caroline Poynder.
“The maternal and child health nurse is based in the same building, while Newcomb Library also has a Baby Time session every Friday, which parents could visit after immunisation.
“Nikki, the children’s and youth services librarian who visits our sessions, is fantastic with the children. They’ve been totally enthralled with her books, puppets and storytelling.
“She has a captive audience and is a welcome distraction as the children wait their 15 minutes after vaccination. It’s a great partnership.”
Barwon Health said the immunisation service was available in the library’s meeting room from 9.30am to 11.45am on the first and third Friday of each month.
The launch of the Newcomb site came as the State Opposition called on the government to lift immunisation rates in Geelong following the confirmation of three measles cases with links to the city and Surf Coast.
The opposition claimed Geelong vaccinations had failed to reach target levels but the government said a comprehensive system was in place to deliver immunisations across Victoria.
The measles outbreak follows debate in recent years over the value of vaccinating children. Vaccination opponents have claimed links to adverse long-term health outcomes, including the development of autism, while supporters have pointed out the success of immunisation in preventing or eliminating incidents of deadly diseases.