Immunisation – staying ahead of many diseases
15 May 2008
Hunter New England Health immunisation clinics at high schools in Armidale, Guyra and Uralla are well underway, providing teenagers with free vaccination against three potentially serious diseases.
The three vaccines being offered are:
• Varicella (chickenpox vaccine) - for children that have not been previously immunised or contracted the disease (available to all students)
• Human Papilloma Vaccine (HPV) - first of 3 doses (available to Year 7,8,9 & 10 girls), and
• Hepatitis B - first dose of two (available to Year 7 boys).
Immunisation Nurse and School Clinic Coordinator Kay Morris, said consent forms are sent to parents from the schools. She asks parents who would like their child to be immunised, to complete the consent form and return it to the school.
She said it is up to parents to decide if their children are suitable to attend immunisations at school.
"Some children may have a history of fainting or be very anxious when immunisation is due. If you prefer to take your child to the doctor, the vaccine is available free but you may be charged for the consultation," she said.
"Each time your child is immunised they will be given a certificate which shows proof of immunisation. It is important that parents put these certificates away safely so they can provide their children with a full immunisation history when they need it.
"If your child is away when we visit your child’s school you will receive a letter advising you to attend your GP for the full course of immunisation being offered at the school," Ms Morris said.
She said the school-based immunisation clinics complements the immunisation program available to babies and toddlers through the Armidale Community Health Centre.
She said immunisation at Armidale Community Health is generally by appointment.
"If you have a local doctor it is advisable to attend the surgery for routine immunisation for your child. This way the doctor has a full medical history of your child including immunisation," she said.
The current immunisation schedule is for vaccinations at 2, 4, 6, 12 and 18 months, followed by a 4-year-old school entry immunisation.
Ms Morris advises parents to carry their child’s immunisation record to any medical appointment they attend with their child, to help the health professional rule out specific conditions.
She said if you have lost your immunisation records you can contact The Australian Children’s Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809 and request a copy of your child’s immunisation status.
You will need to quote your Medicare number to access your child’s information.
Should you have any questions regarding immunisation please contact your local doctor or Kay Morris on 6776 9600.
Photo available as jpeg: School immunisation nurse Sue Hoy providing New England Girls School student Connie McNeil with immunisation which will protect her from cervical cancer
Contact: Kay Cope
Phone: 6776 9817