Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious infection for people living without a functioning spleen.
The recommended vaccines protect against several bacteria that can cause life-threatening infection and are funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
For planned splenectomy, vaccination should be given at least two weeks before surgery where possible.
For adults and children
For adults only
Staying up to date with these specific immunisations will reduce your risk of getting a bacterial infection.
New vaccines are developed frequently, and the medical recommendations are reviewed annually.
It is important to check our website frequently for changes to our medical recommendations as they reflect changes from the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
More information on each vaccination is available from the Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre.
If you are eligible to register with Spleen Australia (people who reside in Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia) we will provide you and your GP with an immunisation plan.
Shingrix, RSV and Covid may be recommended as additional vaccinations depending on age, risk factors, severity of immunocompromise and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status according to your healthcare provider.
However, these vaccines are not funded for everyone – there are conditions you must meet to receive a free shingles, RSV or Covid vaccination. Find out more about National Immunisation Program (NIP)
You can easily view and download your immunisation history statement through myGov. It's a simple way to keep track of your vaccinations or your child's vaccination records.
Your immunisation history statement can help you:
To access your records, sign in to myGov and use your Medicare online account. If you're not eligible for Medicare, you can access your records through the Individual Healthcare Identifiers (IHI) service.
Parents and guardians can view records for children under 14. Children aged 14 and over can access their own immunisation history statement through myGov.
Your immunisation statement is usually up to date, but some older vaccinations, particularly those given before 2021, may not be listed.
Please visit the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) to read its current statements.
Learn more about spleen support for patients:
Animal bites and scratches
Travel information
Antibiotics
Care for children
Lifestyle and wellbeing