Do it for the herd

FROM language and arts to scientific achievements such as putting a man on the moon, humanity likes to see itself as superior to the animal kingdom.

But there are some areas — such as the spread and control of disease — where some of the same general principles apply to man and beast.

One in particular is “herd immunity”. Or, if you prefer to feel less like a character in a David Attenborough documentary, “community immunity’”.

But whatever you call it the science applies the same.

Once a significant proportion of a community is immunised against a contagious disease most members of the group are protected as there is little opportunity for an outbreak.

Even the non-immunised, if a small minority, can get some protection because the spread of contagious disease can be contained.

This is the principle behind efforts to have widespread vaccinations in the community to prevent outbreaks of disease and save lives.

The Western Victoria Primary Health Network region, which includes Geelong and surrounds, enjoys immunisation rates above the state average.

But as revealed in this paper today, the rates at Freshwater Creek Steiner School are more concerning.

Where the state average is 90-95 per cent only about 60 per cent of students at that school are fully immunised.

Perhaps there exists an overlap between parents who seek alternative education such as Steiner schools and a mistrust of the conventional wisdom on vaccination.

But whatever the cause, it is a rate that needs to be addressed.

Health chiefs are right to voice their concerns for the health of non-immunised children.

Any “anti-vaxxer” parents refusing to have their child jabbed need to do proper scientific research and reconsider their position.

To do otherwise is a selfish and shortsighted indulgence that can ultimately affect the whole community.