It's generally recommended to be in good health when you receive a vaccine. If you have a mild illness, like a cold, you can usually still be vaccinated. However, if you are experiencing more severe symptoms such as a fever, it's best to wait until you've recovered. This ensures your immune system is in the best condition to respond properly to the vaccine. Always ask your doctor if you're unsure. They can assess your health at the time of your appointment and advise whether to proceed with the vaccination or reschedule it.

You can view your vaccination history by logging into the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) using your personal MyGov account. Alternatively, discuss your vaccination needs during your consultation with your doctor. They can access your immunisation records, update them if necessary, and recommend any additional vaccines or booster shots applicable to you.

Certain vaccines can interact with medications, especially those that modify immune system responses, such as immunosuppressants. To ensure your vaccinations are safe and effective, it’s important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking. They will evaluate potential interactions and provide personalised advice.

If you have experienced allergic reactions to previous vaccinations, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. They may recommend a consultation with an allergist who can assess your risk and identify safe vaccination options. In some cases, you might be monitored closely during the vaccination process to manage any adverse reactions effectively.

Certain professions, especially those in healthcare, childcare, and animal handling, may have mandatory vaccination requirements to protect both employees and the public from disease outbreaks. Check with your employer or your workplace’s occupational health department to find out which vaccinations are required for your role.