Re: [ozmidwifery] Immunisation before university/employment - Hep.B

[Sandra J. Eales]

Victoria I had just sent off my own Hep B issue to the list when I downloaded yours - must be something in the air. I am a midwife and was immunized about 15 yrs ago when I first graduated with little thought and few questions (I think it might even have been produced from human source in those days - it is now reproduced in yeast or something like).  I have maintained immunity to the present day from that initial 3 dose course and probably the odd encounter with infected body fluids to act as booster? However I have many colleagues who have had repeated full courses and boosters who just never sero-convert.  I think the conversion rate for adults is around 80% and 90% in childhood after 2 doses (but noone is sure how long the immuity will last).  I do still feel that it is a protective advantage for me in my profession but am growing more frustrated with the big brother tactics  of the immunisation police and cynical about the motivating force behind the enormous energy to push and coerce whole populations into using more and more of them.  I think the strongest motivator is money - there are huge profits to be made in this industry and the money makers are well organised and very influential. You probably would be discriminated against if you are not immunised - whether you need it or not.   Sandra        ----- Original Message ----- From: Victoria Couldwell To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, March 10, 2003 10:19 AM Subject: [ozmidwifery] Immunisation before university/employment - Hep.B Dear All,   As a prospective Bach. Midwifery student, I have been invited to attend an interview and health assessment in the UK (I am an Australian, living in Sydney). As part of the health assessment, I am required to advise my immunisation status, which is fine except for Hep.B.... I am unsure about undertaking this immunisation.   * Do you feel that this immunisation is necessary for a midwife? Why/why not?  * Have any midwives, childbirth educators, doulas undertaken the Hep.B immunisation? * Is there any alternative? Can I refuse? Is it mandatory for employment?   I would appreciate any comments.   Thanks,   Victoria Couldwell     MSN Instant Messenger now available on Australian mobile phones. Find our more. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit to subscribe or unsubscribe.