Immunisation status in the public care system: a comparative study.

Children in public care have poor health outcomes despite statutory health assessments. Incomplete immunisation of children entering the care system has been reported. Does this health disadvantage persist for those established in the care system? The immunisation status of 119 children in public care for at least 6 months was compared to that noted in 119 age and sex matched children living in their own homes. Children in public care were significantly less likely to have received immunisations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and polio, than the comparison group. This represents a persisting health disadvantage, which requires remedial action.