As parents, our children’s wellbeing is always our top priority. In Australia, the school immunisation program plays a crucial role in safeguarding children and adolescents against a range of infectious diseases that threaten their health during critical stages of development. The school immunisation program, which follows the National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule, is designed to provide comprehensive protection to our children. By understanding the scope and specifics of the program, we can ensure that our children receive the necessary vaccines to prevent diseases and maintain their health and growth. This article aims to provide a detailed breakdown of the vaccines your child can receive as part of this vital public health initiative, alongside insights into common adverse events associated with these vaccines and how you can support your child through them.
The school immunisation program protects children and adolescents from diseases that are prevalent and particularly harmful to this age group and are an effective way to prevent the spread of disease, allowing students to focus on their studies. The National Immunisation Program is further supplemented by state and territory governments that may offer additional vaccines. It is important for parents and guardians to stay informed about the national and local immunisation schedule to ensure that your children receive the appropriate vaccines needed to maintain wellbeing and the widest possible protection throughout their school years.
Recommended vaccines and support for common adverse events
Influenza
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to serious complications that can be fatal. Annual flu shots are recommended for all children from 6 months old. The circulating flu strains mutate often and fluctuate seasonally which is why the strains contained in the vaccines can change each year. Annual vaccines are crucial in adapting to changing flu virus strains and maintaining protection. Currently, influenza is only funded for children up to five years of age, children who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders, and children with certain medical conditions.
Common reactions post-influenza vaccination include drowsiness or tiredness, soreness at the injection site and sometimes mild fever or muscle aches. Most reactions are mild, only last a couple of days and are resolved without any complications. To support your child, ensure they rest and stay hydrated. Applying a cool, damp cloth to the injection site can help soothe the soreness. If appropriate, paracetamol or ibuprofen can manage fever and pain but always adhere to the recommended dosages for your child’s age and weight.
Learn more about influenza vaccination: National Immunisation Program 2024 Influenza vaccination consumer fact sheet
Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis
12–13 years (Year 7 or equivalent), the focus is on Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (whooping cough). Students will receive one dose of Gardasil 9, the HPV vaccine. Gardasil 9 protects against the nine most common strains of HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer, anal cancer and the development of genital warts. Following administration of this vaccination, children may experience injection site pain or swelling along with headaches or a mild fever. A cool compress can alleviate injection site discomfort, while rest and over-the-counter pain relief can be beneficial for any headache or fever that may follow.
The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (whooping cough) combination vaccine Boostrix is a booster that provides continued protection against these three potentially serious diseases. Possible reactions include redness or swelling at the injection site and mild fever. Ensuring comfort and reassurance to your child is important. Applying a cool compress to the area and using age and weight-appropriate pain relief can help manage these common side effects.
Find out more: Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (dTpa)vaccine Parent Information Sheet
Meningococcal ACWY
14–16-year-old students (Year 10 or equivalent) can receive the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine. The vaccine protects against four strains (A, C, W, and Y) of meningococcal disease. This vaccination is an important preventative measure, as meningococcal disease is a severe and potentially life-threatening infection that can cause meningitis and other serious health complications. By receiving the vaccine, students can safeguard their health and help prevent the spread of the disease within their school and broader community.
Adverse reactions may involve redness or pain at the injection site, fever or feeling tired. Encouraging your child to rest and using a cool compress for any discomfort at the injection site can provide relief. Fever and pain can also be addressed with suitable over-the-counter medicines.
More information can be found here: Meningococcal ACWY vaccination Paraent Information Sheet
Vaccinations for specific risk factors
Australia places significant emphasis on its immunisation program, with a particular focus on ensuring that children and adolescents who are at increased medical risk, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, refugees, and humanitarian entrants receive the necessary vaccinations to maintain their health and well-being. For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, as well as those with specific medical conditions that put them at higher risk of infection or severe disease, can receive additional vaccinations for Pneumococcal and Meningococcal B. This approach aligns with Australia’s commitment to providing equitable healthcare services and necessary protection to all members of society.
Additional vaccinations for people with specific risk factors are crucial as they safeguard against serious illnesses that can be life-threatening for people prone to infection. By providing these additional vaccinations to those who need them most, Australia is taking a targeted and effective approach to ensure that everyone has the best possible protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
State and Territory funding
In addition to the National Immunisation Program, each state and territory government may offer additional vaccines. For example, the South Australia State Government Meningococcal B (MenB) Immunisation Program provides funded MenB (Bexsero) vaccines to eligible children and young people. Meanwhile, starting from March 2024, the Queensland MenB Vaccination Program will provide free Meningococcal B vaccines to eligible Queensland infants, children, and adolescents. Parents and guardians are encouraged to check the local immunisation program to ensure their children receive the broadest protection available.
Understanding the school immunisation program is crucial, but active participation is the key. As parents and guardians, you play a vital role in protecting your child and the entire community from vaccine preventable diseases. Engage with your child’s school and consult your GP or authorised immunisers today if you would like further information. Let’s unite in this shared commitment to ensure our children have the protection they need to thrive and contribute together to a healthier and safer environment for all our children.
A note to healthcare providers and immunisers
Your dedication to vaccinating children and adolescents is crucial, particularly for those in high-risk groups. It’s vital to stay informed about the latest immunisation recommendations and schedules, particularly for those in high-risk groups.
For more information on the updates, refer to the following resources:
Visit the ACN Immunisation Hub to access immunisation news and information and explore opportunities to deepen your expertise in this critical field. Progress your career by becoming an authorised immuniser through our specialised 347 National Immunisation Program for Healthcare Practitioners course or refresh your knowledge with a CPD course.
By Eva Liu
References
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023a, June 30). Catch-up immunisations. https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/immunisation-information-for-health-professionals/catch-up-immunisations
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023b, October 10). Vaccination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Australian Immunisation Handbook. https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccination-for-special-risk-groups/vaccination-for-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-people
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023c, October 23). Vaccination for migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia. The Australian Immunisation Handbook. https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccination-for-special-risk-groups/vaccination-for-migrants-refugees-and-people-seeking-asylum-in-australia
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023d, November 1). National Immunisation Program Schedule. https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/when-to-get-vaccinated/national-immunisation-program-schedule?language=und
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023e, November 1). Table. Common side effects following immunisation for vaccines used in the National Immunisation Program schedule. The Australian Immunisation Handbook. https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/resources/tables/table-common-side-effects-following-immunisation-for-vaccines-used-in-the-national-immunisation-program-schedule
Bojanic, N. (2024, February 20). Queensland Meningococcal B (menB) Vaccination Program update. Gold Coast Primary Health Network. https://gcphn.org.au/queensland-meningococcal-b-menb-vaccination-program-update/
