NSW Annual vaccine-preventable disease report, 2011.

Abstract

Aim: To describe the epidemiology of selected vaccine-preventable diseases in NSW for 2011.

Methods: Data from the NSW Notifiable Conditions Information Management System were analysed by: local health district of residence, age, Aboriginality, vaccination status, and organism, where available. Risk factor and vaccination status data were collected by public health units for case-patients following notification under the NSW Public Health Act 1991*.

Results: Outbreaks of measles and pertussis were reported in 2011, associated with unimmunised groups for measles, and a variety of factors for pertussis. Notification rates for other selected vaccine-preventable diseases remained stable.

Conclusion: Vaccine-preventable diseases are generally well controlled in NSW. However, pertussis remains an important public health issue. To prevent measles high population vaccination coverage, including vaccination in risk groups, is essential.