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Using record linkage to examine testing patterns for respiratory viruses among children born in Western Australia

Using linked data, we describe changes in respiratory virus testing among children born in Western Australia in 1996-2012

Using record linkage to validate notification and laboratory data for a more accurate assessment of notifiable infectious diseases

Studies investigating pathogen-specific infectious disease would benefit from using multiple data sources.

The safety of maternal immunization

Existing evidence supporting the safety of vaccination during pregnancy should be used to reassure pregnant women and improve vaccine uptake in pregnancy

Effect of Maternal Influenza Vaccination on Hospitalization for Respiratory Infections in Newborns: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Maternal influenza vaccination was associated with a reduction in the incidence of hospital admission for acute respiratory illness among infants <6 months old

Effectiveness of seasonal trivalent influenza vaccination against hospital-attended acute respiratory infections in pregnant women

Influenza vaccination during pregnancy was associated with significantly fewer hospital attendances for ARI in pregnant women

Boosting the influenza vaccine schedule in children with cancer: a prospective open-label study

Current immunization guidelines recommend one dose of influenza vaccine for children aged ≥9 years and two doses for younger or vaccine-naïve children. However, children receiving chemotherapy have an attenuated immune response. We performed a prospective open-label study in children undergoing treatment for cancer at Perth Children's Hospital, Western Australia, to examine the safety and efficacy of a boosted influenza schedule.

Collecting behavioural data across countries during pandemics: Development of the COVID-19 Risk Assessment Tool

Tools that can be used to collect behavioural data during pandemics are needed to inform policy and practice. The objective of this project was to develop the Your COVID-19 Risk tool in response to the global spread of COVID-19, aiming to promote health behaviour change. We developed an online resource based on key behavioural evidence-based risk factors related to contracting and spreading COVID-19. This tool allows for assessing risk and provides instant support to protect individuals from infection.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Strain Evolution and Mutations in Western Australia in the Context of Nirsevimab Prophylaxis

Nirsevimab is a long-acting monoclonal antibody used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants and high-risk children. During the 2024 RSV season in Western Australia, 21 922 doses were administered to infants entering their first season and 1221 doses to at-risk children. In this context, the selection and spread of escape variants are a potential concern. This study aimed to investigate nirsevimab binding site mutations using clinical and wastewater data.

Invasive Fungal Disease in Immunocompromised Children: Current and Emerging Therapies

In an era of expanding indications for iatrogenic immunosuppression, invasive fungal disease (IFD) remains a significant challenge in immunocompromised children, with case fatality rates ranging from 10 to 70%. Understanding of current recommendations and recent evidence is essential to guide optimal IFD management.

Characterising the epidemiology of RSV in Australian children through record linkage: clinical burden, outcomes and risk factors

Hannah Peter Moore Richmond OAM BSc (Hons) GradDipClinEpi PhD MBBS MRCP(UK) FRACP Head, Infectious Diseases Research Head, Vaccine Trials Group 08