During World Immunisation Week, it’s older Australians who are being targeted to get the jab for their health. 

More than one-in-four Australians aged 65 to 69 have not received any of the government recommended vaccines for their age, according to a new survey.

In fact, figures released by the Immunisation Coalition found just 4 per cent of 65- to 69-year-olds have been vaccinated for shingles, 33 per cent for pneumonia and 70 per cent for influenza.

That’s in total contrast to the five-year age group – where more than 90 per cent are up to date with their vaccinations, thanks to an ongoing campaign.

More than 2800 deaths a year on average in Australia are due to pneumonia and influenza, while around 120,000 cases of shingles are estimated to occur in people aged over 60.

Whooping cough is another one, and in this day and age when grandparents are taking a bigger role in childcare, it’s something to consider.

But there seems to be a reluctance – or disbelief.

Of those surveyed, less than one-in- five believe they are at high risk of contracting influenza, only 9 per cent believe they are at high risk of pneumococcal disease, and just 7 per cent believe they are at high risk of contracting shingles.

As a society we’re keen to espouse the benefits of vaccinations for children, but it seems there’s little awareness of the same for older generations.

It’s a fact of life that as we get older we don’t recover as quickly, or as well from illness, so it would seem to follow that we ought to be prepared and do what we can to prevent from getting sick in the first place.

But as always in these matters you should consult your doctor or GP, because everyone’s situation is different.