General News
19 January, 2022
Kids roll up their sleeves for vaccine
CHILDREN AGED five to 11 are now eligible to receive their COVID vaccines.
Last week 11-year old Aimee rolled up her sleeve to receive her first dose of Pfizer before she starts Grade 6 in February.
Aimee and her parents had the discussion together regarding the vaccine, where she expressed, she wanted to be brave and protect her community like mum, dad and her three big sisters.
“I was really nervous at first because I have seen people have side eff ects, but it didn’t hurt which was really good,” she said.
“I wanted to get “the needle” before I go back to school and see my friends.”
Aimee was excited to get a bright yellow sticker to match her bright yellow shirt that day and will get her second jab in six weeks’ time.
Primary and secondary school kids will be delayed going back to classrooms as the spread of Omicron surges through the state.
Minister for Education Grace Grace said that schools will work closely with the Department of Education to help the transition back to school as smooth as possible.
“Principals will implement staffing arrangements to ensure only the minimum number of staff are on site, but we will ensure vulnerable children and children of essential workers can still attend,” she said. “
This the first time most of us in Queensland are experiencing widespread community transmission of COVID, and it’s challenging for everyone.
“An extensive range of resources and activities will be available to students via our comprehensive learning@home site, however, school staff – like the wider workforce – are likely to be significantly impacted by the number of COVID cases, so directed remote learning won’t be offered at this stage other than for years 11 and 12.
“Parents and carers can decide what their children do over these two weeks and staff who are able to work will be carrying out a range of duties, just as they would on other student free days.”
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said that now is a vital time to get vaccinated in order to protect the wider community.
“January and February are going to be tough months for Queensland, with a significant impact expected on all our workforces – including teachers but the more people who are vaccinated, the smaller the impact on our health service,” she said.
“I cannot emphasise enough, getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself against COVID.
“Whether it’s your first or second jab, or your booster, do not delay.”
To book your child in for their vaccination before school starts, ring your closest pharmacy or go to https://www.vaccinebookings.health.qld.gov.au
