The Australian Government Department of Health has released a series of videos for school students about the vaccinations they receive at high school. These videos will be shown in schools across the country ahead of students receiving their vaccines throughout the school year.
The Australian Government funds a number of vaccines delivered through school-based vaccination programs, as part of the National Immunisation Program. These include the combination vaccine for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (dTpa), meningococcal ACWY, and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. Depending on the state or territory, the HPV and dTpa vaccines are provided in years 7 and 8 (aged 12-13 years) and the meningococcal ACWY is provided in year 10 (aged 14-16 years).
The videos provide students with information about each disease, why immunisation is important, and what to expect when they receive each vaccine at school. They also aim to ease student concerns by providing practical tips to help reduce anxiety.
As a parent or carer, it's important to talk to your child about how important immunisation is. You can let them know a small amount of pain will provide them with a lifetime of protection.
Students who don't receive the vaccine at school are eligible for free catch up vaccines. Please contact your state or territory health department for more details.
