​​​​​​​​​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 (e.g., 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 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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