[History of recommendations for immunizations in Austria]

Abstract

Public immunizations against small-pox were first conducted in Austria over 200 years ago on December 10th 1800. The first legal regulation concerning small-pox vaccination was issued in 1836. Official recommendations for childhood vaccinations were first published in 1973 in conjunction with the Austrian anticipatory health care program for children. Since 1984 the Ministry of Health in cooperation with the Federal Advisory Committee on Health publishes and updates recommendations for immunizations for all age groups at intervals dictated by epidemic necessities and availability of vaccines.