News and Media
e-Newsletters
We communicate regularly with our members via newsletters. The latest issues are posted below.
Latest IDFA Updates
New Group Chat for Young Adult Members
We’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be launching a new Group Chat via Zoom especially for our young adult members (aged 15-30 years)! This will be a weekly event, with the...
8-year old Tyson Gavan Aims to Raise $5,000 for IDFA
This month, 8-year-old Tyson Gavan is aiming to raise $5,000 for the IDFA by calling on people to sponsor him to cut off his hair this Giving Tuesday (30th November, 2021)....
In Memory of Geoffrey McAlary
IDFA would like to send their condolences to the family and friends of Geoffrey McAlary and thank them for their donations that have been made in memory of Geoffrey. Geoffrey...
Media Releases
Nationwide Implementation of SCID Newborn Screening Ends Postcode Lottery
The role of the collective voice was pertinent for the implementation of SCID testing Australia wide, with Rare Voices Australia bringing patients and organisations together to advocate for the inclusion into newborn screening.
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It is time to shine a light on ‘Hidden Disabilities’
In recent times, there has been increased recognition around ‘hidden disabilities,’ and patient organisations Australian Primary Immunodeficiency Patient Support (AusPIPS Inc.) and Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia (IDFA) are joining the conversation.
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Unite and wear your colours for Rare Disease Day 2024
Olivia Murdoch emphasises the importance in raising awareness for all rare diseases. “We know that education about these kinds of illnesses will provide earlier diagnosis and treatment for people, with the aim to avoid potentially life-threatening situations, which we had to endure.”
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Upcoming Events
Important Dates
Rare Disease Day - Last day of February
Held on the last day of February each year Rare Disease Day is an international campaign aimed at raising awareness of rare diseases amongst the general public and decision makers about the impact of rare disease on patients’ lives.
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World PI Week - 22-29 April
Observed every year from April 22 to April 29 World PI Week is a global initiative that aims to increase awareness and improve the early diagnosis and treatment of primary immunodeficiencies (PI).
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International Plasma Awareness Week - First week of October
Held annually, International Plasma Awareness Week raises global awareness about source plasma collection, recognises the valued contributions of donors, and increases understanding about plasma protein therapies and rare diseases.
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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
The global pandemic is an ever-changing situation so it’s important you keep up to date with the current status in your state or territory. For those living with an immunodeficiency please seek guidance specific to your illness from your medical team particularly if you suffer from respiratory issues.
COVID-19 – immunodeficiency and vaccines
With the implementation of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine national rollout strategy, we have had a range of questions from our members about what this will mean for people with primary or secondary immunodeficiency.
We have compiled a list of resources for you which provide information specific to the immunodeficiency community, the vaccines available in Australia and the national rollout strategy.
COVID-19 Resources
ASCIA COVID-19 Resources
- ASCIA – COVID-19 vaccine FAQ’s for those living with allergy, immunodeficiency and autoimmunity
- ASCIA – Guide: Immunodeficiency, Autoimmunity and COVID-19 Vaccination
- ASCIA – Allergy, Immunodeficiency and Autoimmunity COVID-19 Vaccination Position Statement
- ASCIA Position Statement – COVID-19 Prophylaxis in People with Immune Deficiencies
- ASCIA – Evusheld for COVID-19 prophylaxis
Australia Government COVID-19 Resources
- Australian Government – Department of Health – updates for COVID-19 vaccines
- Australian Government – Department of Health – Australia’s vaccine national rollout strategy
- Australian Government – Department of Health – Information for people with disability about COVID-19 vaccines
- Australian Government – Department of Health – COVID-19 health alert information