Australia has seen a 3% decrease in one-year-olds fully immunized against hepatitis B, continuing a downward trend in childhood vaccination rates. Experts attribute this decline to the influence of recent changes in US vaccination policies, particularly those promoted by former President Trump, which suggest fewer vaccinations and link them to autism without scientific backing.
Health professionals in Australia express concern that misinformation from the US is affecting local vaccine confidence. A national survey indicates that Australian parents are increasingly hesitant about routine vaccinations, with current coverage for five-year-olds at 92.6%, below the 95% target necessary for herd immunity.