Australian Immunisation Handbook
Since the Centre's inception, NCIRS members have provided input into The Australian Immunisation Handbook, Australia's national clinical guideline for health professionals on the safest and most effective use of vaccines.
From 2005, NCIRS significantly expanded its role in this area and provided substantial input into the 9th edition of the Handbook, working closely with members of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). A team of NCIRS staff worked on all aspects of the 9th edition Handbook development, including literature searches, critical appraisal of literature, full systematic reviews, scientific writing, proofreading, editing, and overall project coordination. Liaison with the NHMRC Guideline Assessment Register was also undertaken.
The team was lead by Dr Jane Jelfs, Immunisation Handbook Coordinator, and included Ms Catherine King, Librarian, and Ms Donna Armstrong, Editing and Publications Officer.
Many NCIRS staff were technical writers who supported ATAGI members in developing chapters.
The 9th edition of the The Australian Immunisation Handbook was published by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing in April 2008.
The Handbook contains a copy of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule.
The electronic version of the 9th edition Handbook, together with updates made since its publication, is available online: Australian Immunisation Handbook.
NCIRS continues to be involved with the Handbook, and works together with ATAGI members to provide updates to the electronic version of the guideline. In July 2009, the eHandbook was updated to include more detailed information on the use of the herpes zoster vaccine which had recently been registered for use in Australia. Additional amendments to the 9th edition Handbook are being undertaken and are in various stages of development. Immunisation providers can sign up for updates at the Immunise Australia website.
NCIRS and ATAGI have commenced planning for the 10th edition of the Handbook.
