Your patient has an increased lifelong risk of serious bacterial infections. Therefore it is important they have the most up to date education regarding their risk of infection, vaccines and antibiotics available.

All vaccinations for people without a functioning spleen are funded by the Australian Government. Please visit this link to read this statement from ATAGI.

Adult Medical Recommendations
Paediatric Medical Recommendations
Splenic Artery Embolisation Recommendations
Consent and Information Letters

CLINICIANS CHECKLIST

  • Check latest Spleen Australia medical recommendations
  • Reinforce with the patient on signs and symptoms of infection and when to seek urgent medical care
  • Ensure correct doses and timing of pneumococcal, meningococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccines have been administered
  • Prescribe daily prophylactic antibiotics if required
  • Ensure patient has an emergency supply of antibiotics and that they understand when to take it
  • Give annual influenza vaccine
  • Register with Spleen Australia if you live in Victoria, Tasmania or Queensland