Immunisation:
Refugees and immigrants from Afghanistan may present with no immunisation history known or different immunisation schedules. Their access to necessary immunisation may have been limited. Ensuring they are up to date with their immunisation is essential for their health and the public health. Treatment options would consist of checking for vaccination records and providing the immunisation required.  Providing the necessary education on the importance of immunisation, the Australian immunisation schedule and how to access routine vaccinations.

Low Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble that helps to absorb calcium, which is needed by our body to maintain strong bones, muscles and overall health (Better Health Victoria, n.d.). Sources of vitamin D are ultraviolet radiation, UV from the sun, certain foods, and vitamin D supplements (Better Health Victoria, n.d.). Afghanistan does have a hot climate, but due to not having a nutritious diet or access to supplements, they may present with a Vitamin D deficiency. Treatment options would be to monitor Vitamin D levels, provide supplements, and provide education on the importance of maintaining a sufficient level of vitamin D, having a balanced diet, sun exposure, and prioritising food that is rich in vitamin D. 

Australian Department of Home Affairs. (n.d.). Afghanistan update. Retrieved from https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-and-support/afghanistan-update

Amnesty International. (n.d.). Human rights in Afghanistan. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from https://www.amnesty.org/en/location/asia-and-the-pacific/south-asia/afghanistan/report-afghanistan/

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental health: Strengthening our response.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response

Better Health Victoria. (n.d.). Vitamin D. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/vitamin-d

Refugees and immigrants often struggle with gaining employment upon arrival due to factors such as recognition of previous qualifications, language barriers and discrimination. This may lead them to jobs with limited job security, short-term employment and low income. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare recognises the substantial impact unemployment and job insecurity have on individuals' mental and physical health. 

Access to quality education is another determining factor of refugees' and immigrants' well-being. A gap in knowledge may be formed due to the language barrier, or knowledge may not be recognised due to language barrier, prior gap in education, and unfamiliarity with the Australian education system, which can slow down their educational process. Educational attainment is linked to socioeconomic position, which affects people's health (Social Determinants of Health Snapshot, 2022). Poor health contributes to a lower socioeconomic position and can be the product of the socioeconomic position (Social Determinants of Health Snapshot, 2022). 

Refugees and immigrants entering a new culture and environment may experience feelings of exclusion, isolation and discrimination, which can have a. negative impact on their mental health and well-being. Social inclusion and non-discrimination are recognised as health-determining factors by the World Health Organisation. It may affect refugees and immigrants' pursuit of a good life and their participation within the community.


Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2022). Social determinants of health snapshot. 
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/social-determinants-of-health

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Social determinants of health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1