Vaccinations for 5-11 Year Olds by NEMBC Media - VIC Multilingual News Service

Children aged 5 to 11 can now get vaccinated against Covid-19.
Children aged 5 to 11 can receive a free Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
This is around one third of the dose given to people aged 12 years and older.
Children aged 12 years and over can already receive the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.

Why should I get my child vaccinated?
By vaccinating your children, you can help to:
• Reduce the spread of COVID-19
• Protect them from getting sick from COVID-19
• Keep schools open, so children can have more face-to-face learning and playtime with their friends.
Although many children only get mild COVID symptoms, children can spread COVID-19 very easily.
It is important to vaccinate children to protect you and your family from getting COVID-19.

How many doses does my child need?
Children should get two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, spaced 8 weeks apart.
A shorter gap between doses may be used in special circumstances, please speak to your GP.

Is it safe to vaccinate children?
Vaccines have been given to children for a long time to protect them from a range of diseases.
The Pfzier COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective to use for children between the ages of 5 and 11.
It has been approved by Australian Government Health Authorities.
All vaccines have side effects, like any other medicine, but serious side effects are very rare.
Children can experience side effects after the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines such as: a sore arm, headache, fever and fatigue.
These are common and expected side effects which can almost always be managed at home with paracetamol.
You should talk to your doctor if you have more questions about getting your child vaccinated.

Where can I get my child vaccinated?
Bookings at GPs and pharmacies are now available.
Many pharmacies will also have walk-in appointments so you can get your child vaccinated in your local area.
You can also get your child vaccinated at a state vaccination centres.
You can book online at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment or call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 between 8 am and 8 pm, 7 days a week (press 0 if you need an interpreter).

How do I prepare for my child’s appointment?
To keep COVIDSafe, only one parent or guardian can attend a vaccination appointment with a child.
Make sure to bring:
• parent or guardian’s Medicare or IHI details,
• parent or guardians photo identification
• photo ID of your child if they have it
• masks for anyone aged over 8 years
You can also think about bringing a toy, book or activity for your child to do while they are waiting.
If you child is nervous about getting a needle a familiar toy might help them feel calmer.
The parent or guardian must give consent for any child aged 5-11 years to be vaccinated.
This means you give permission for the child to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
You provide consent at the time of booking the appointment.

What if my child has a disability?
If your child or a child you care for has a disability you can get help with COVID-19 vaccinations from a local Disability Liaison Officer. Email to DLOcoordinator@dhhs.vic.gov.au

What if my child is afraid of needles?
If your child is afraid of needles it’s important to prepare for your appointment.
Explain to them what is going to happen at the appointment, and the needle will feel like a small prick and their arm might be a little bit sore afterwards.
It can help to get your child vaccinated in a place they know like a local pharmacy or doctor.
You can bring along your child’s favourite toys or books to help make the experience more positive or distract them.
Tell your provider that your child is afraid of needles before your appointment so they can make sure there is plenty of time during your appointment.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccination for children and teenagers and to book a vaccination appointment for your child go to:
www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccination-information-children-and-teenagers