Frequently Asked Questions

Common Immunisation Questions

What if I am unable to have vaccinations finalised before placement?

You should be in the process of having all your vaccinations – please discuss at the time of your appointment with the Campus Nurse/Medical Practitioner.

What if I am unwell - should I still have my vaccinations?

This depends on which vaccines you are having and how unwell you are. Generally we don’t immunise people who have a temperature of over 38.5 deg C.  Please discuss this with the Campus Nurse/Medical Practitioner.

What if I haven’t had a course of Hepatitis B immunisations at school? (Either the 2 or 3 vaccination course that was available at that time)

If you have not had a course at school or elsewhere you will need to have a course of 3 vaccinations – the second vaccination is due one month after the first and the third vaccination is due 5 months after the second. One month after the course you will need to have a blood test to check your Hepatitis B antibody status. The vaccinations are available on campus. (see note below on Hepatitis A )

What about Hepatitis A immunisation – should I have this as well?

Currently you do not need to have this to go on your placement but it is useful in your medical career particularly if you are going to be working in high risk areas. Hepatitis A vaccination is 2 vaccinations 6 months apart. You can have the Hepatitis A and B together in the 6 month course – you would then be tested for Hepatitis A and B antibodies when you have the blood test, one month following the course. Having the 2 together is a slightly cheaper option than having them apart.

What if I have allergies should I still be vaccinated?

This depends on which allergies you have and which vaccines you are having.  Please discuss with the Medical Practitioner/Campus Nurse.

I have never had Chicken Pox or shingles - will I need to have this vaccination?

The Faculty recommends that students who have not had either disease should now be immunised. When you are having your blood test for Hepatitis B antibodies ask the Medical Practitioner to run an antibody test for Chicken Pox (Varicella) and Shingles (Varicella-zoster). Sometimes people can be exposed to the diseases and make antibodies without having signs of the illness. If your result is low you should be vaccinated – this is 2 vaccinations 1 - 2 months apart.

Can I have a blood test to check if I have had my vaccinations?

Your immune status can be checked for Hepatitis A & B, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chicken Pox (Varicella) and Tuberculosis. Extra doses of vaccine in general have not caused problems or reactions. Medical Practitioners are not always happy to run unnecessary tests if it documented that you have had these vaccinations or have had the disease.

What if I am pregnant – will I be able to have vaccinations?

There has been no documentary evidence that vaccinations have caused problems during pregnancy but the University Policy is to avoid vaccinations at this time. Book an appointment with the Campus Nurse/Medical Practitioner to discuss what is required.

What if I do not wish to have my vaccinations? Why do I need them?

You can choose not to have your vaccinations – as a conscientious objector, but you may find it more difficult to find placement for the practical component of your course.

Many clinical establishments insist on complete immunisation. Vaccinations are necessary to prevent you from becoming ill and to protect immuno-suppressed  patients inadvertently getting diseases from their health care workers.

If you decide to be a conscientious objector you must notify MBBS student Services at your home campus. Clayton/Bendigo students must discuss this with the Deputy Dean, Professor Leon Piterman, and Gippsland students with the Assistant Dean Assoc Prof William Hart. Please refer to Immunisation and Infection Risk

How do I make an appointment with the on campus Medical Practitioner/ Campus Nurse?

Appointments regarding your vaccination status will be provided for you early in the semester. If you need further consultations/appointments contact:

Clayton students:  University Health Service in the Western end of the Campus Centre: 99053175.

Gippsland students: Health, Wellbeing and Development – opposite the Student Union, 9902-6425.  The Campus Nurse is available 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday.