Why vaccination matters

Before vaccination day

• Don’t miss out on these free vaccines!
• Remind your parent or carer to complete the online consent form, or ask your school for a paper consent form.
• Consent must be completed and returned to your school before you get vaccinated.

On the day

• Eat a good breakfast.
• Wear a short-sleeve shirt if allowed (such as a sports uniform).
• The nurse will ask you some questions like:
• talk to you about the vaccine
• ask questions about your health
• confirm your details by asking for your name, date of birth, and address.
• You may feel a pinch, sting, or tingle during the injection. You will need to wait 15 minutes afterward to ensure you’re feeling okay.

After the vaccine

It’s normal to have mild side effects after a vaccine. You might notice some tiredness, have a headache, pain, redness, or swelling where the needle went in. This usually goes away quickly. Serious side effects are very rare.

If your arm feels sore or swollen:

• put a cold, damp cloth on the spot to help it feel better
• ask your parents or carer for pain relief if it’s sore
• drink plenty of water to help your body recover
• keep moving your arm to reduce soreness
• after vaccination, you can play sport, have a shower and participate in after-school activities.

Well done! You’ve taken a smart step toward protecting your health!

Your vaccines and why they are important

Year 7

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine

One injection.

Protects against- HPV related cancers such as cervical cancer, cancers of the head and neck, genital cancers and genital warts.

Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough), (dTpa) vaccine

One injection.

Gives 3-in-1 protection for teenagers.

This vaccine protects you from:

• diphtheria – a serious throat infection
• tetanus – causes painful muscle spasms
• whooping cough – a strong cough that can make it hard to breathe.

Year 10

Meningococcal ACWY vaccine

Protects against: Meningococcal disease, a rare but serious illness caused by a bacterial infection. It can lead to:

• meningitis – swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord
• septicaemia – blood poisoning and possible loss of fingers and toes.

Remember: If you’re not at school on vaccination day, don’t worry. You can catch up at a future school clinic, or you can get a free vaccine at your GP, pharmacy or Aboriginal Medical Service.

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