The Finocchiaro CLP Government's free meningococcal B vaccination program is providing vital protection for infants, aged six weeks to two years, and adolescents aged 14 to 19 years.
The program marks a major milestone in safeguarding Territory families from this rare but potentially devastating disease.
About 4,200 babies and 18,500 adolescents across the Territory are now eligible to access the free vaccine, which came into effect on January 1.
Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said the program reflected the CLP Government's commitment to improve health outcomes for all Territorians, and help ease the cost of living.
"This initiative delivers on our promise to ensure Territory families have access to vital protection against meningococcal B," she said.
"From the beginning of this year, Year 9 students will receive the vaccine as part of the school immunisation schedule, while a catch-up program will be provided in schools later in the year for students in years 10, 11 and 12.
"Previously, the meningococcal B vaccine was only available for free to Aboriginal children or those with specific medical conditions. This program ensures every eligible family can access this vital protection for free."
Health Minister Steve Edgington stressed the life-saving importance of the program.
"In the past decade, the NT has recorded 18 cases of meningococcal B, including three tragic deaths in the past five years," he said.
"Survivors often face devastating lifelong disabilities, with one-in-four impacted.
"This free vaccination program is a game changer. It will help Territory families avoid the unimaginable loss of a child or the long-term effects of this preventable disease."
The CLP Government has invested $1 million to fund the program, including a two-year catch-up initiative, and committed an additional $500,000 annually to support ongoing vaccinations for infants and Year 9 students.
Sally Lawrence, who tragically lost her daughter Skylar to meningococcal B, said the program is testament to the power of advocacy and perseverance.
"Since losing Skylar, my family has worked tirelessly to prevent others from experiencing the same heartbreak," she said.
"Knowing this vaccine is now freely available to all Territory children is a huge relief. It's been a long time coming, but it's finally here."
NT Health has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign across social media, web, print, radio, and television to promote the meningococcal B vaccine roll-out.
For adolescents, the vaccine is given as two doses at least 8 weeks apart. The vaccine will be provided through the NT School Immunisation Program but is also available from GP's, pharmacies and health clinics.
For infants, the meningococcal B vaccine can be safely administered with other scheduled childhood vaccines as part of the standard National Immunisation Program, from 6 weeks of age.
Children under 12 months require three doses of the vaccine, while children over the age of 12 months require two doses. Infants can also access the vaccine from their local health clinic or GP.
