What we do
How Spleen Australia can help you
Spleen Australia provides personalised vaccine and antibiotic recommendations, practical resources, and ongoing support tailored to your needs. Our nurses work with you and your doctor to answer questions and guide care decisions.
Whether you're newly diagnosed or have lived without a functioning spleen for years, we're here for the long term. Through reminders, updates and current best-practice information, we help you and your healthcare team review your care regularly and stay healthy, informed and protected.
Services we currently offer to residents in several Australian states:
- Registration & risk awareness – We register people who've had their spleen removed or have a non-functioning one, making sure both patients and their GPs understand the lifelong infection risk.
- Personalised vaccination plan – Each person registered gets a tailored vaccination schedule plus a vaccine record card, so nothing gets missed.
- Access to nursing support – We offer a phone line to Spleen Australia's nursing staff for questions or concerns, available Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm AEST.
- A wallet alert card – A wallet card you carry and show to any new doctor or medical practitioner, flagging your condition instantly in an emergency.
- Ongoing education & updates – News and information via this website, newsletters and updates on medical recommendations.
Support for Spleen Australia members
If you live in Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, or Western Australia, you can register and get direct support, including:
- Phone consultations with a nurse to talk through how to manage your health and answer any questions you have.
- A personalised plan for vaccines and antibiotics based on your medical history.
- A physical kit sent to your home with infection prevention information, a vaccine record card, and a small "wallet alert card" to keep in your wallet for emergencies.
- Ongoing reminders through newsletters so you can stay up to date with any changes in health guidelines.
Support for your GP
Spleen Australia also communicates with your doctor which includes the following:
- Spleen Australia sends reports and shares treatment recommendations with your clinic.
- Your GP can access regularly updated, evidence-based guidelines tied to the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
- If you're allergic to penicillin, Spleen Australia can advise your GP on suitable alternative antibiotics for both daily use and emergencies.
Need vaccine advice in ACT, NSW, NT or SA?
Spleen Australia services are currently funded in Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia. If you live elsewhere, please contact your GP, specialist or local immunisation service for advice.
You and your doctor can freely download our full range of resources, including medical guidelines for adults and children and travel advice.