Getting vaccinated helps to protect you, your family and community from the spread of COVID-19.
Children aged 5-11 years can now receive their first dose of the vaccine. Getting your children vaccinated will help to reduce the spread of COVID-19, protect them from getting really sick, and help to keep schools open which means more time for them to learn and play.
It’s important children get vaccinated before the end of January (when Term 1 starts for school and kindergarten) or as soon as they turn 5.
Where can children get vaccinated?
Children can be vaccinated at your local GP, pharmacy, Aboriginal Health Service, or at a family-friendly vaccination center:
- Make an online booking
- Contact VAHS: Fitzroy on (03) 9419 3000 or Epping on (03) 8592 3920
- Call the Coronavirus Hotline: 1800 675 398
- Find a GP, pharmacy or local vaccination hub
What to expect on the day
Some children might be anxious about getting their COVID-19 vaccine or being in a new environment, this is normal. The health care staff member providing the vaccine is trained to work with children of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
If your child is overly nervous, health care staff might use visual distractions or vaccination aids to help calm your child. Low sensory spaces are also available at some vaccination centres to support children with a disability or special requirements.