Parents urged to check their kid’s vaccination history before start of school year

Parents across the country are being reminded to check their children’s immunisations for conditions such meningococcal, measles, and tetanus are up to date, as they get ready to begin schooling this year.

Immunising against harmful, contagious but vaccine preventable diseases, protects the health of Australian families and communities. It is also a requirement for many Centrelink payments that children are immunised.

The process to check that a child’s immunisations are up to date is simple and easy to navigate online.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt described Australia as a “vaccination nation,” and encouraged families to prioritise their child’s immunisation.

“The first three quarters of 2020 saw record results of child immunisation for one year olds, two year olds and five year olds, which is a terrific reflection on Australian families and their dedication to prioritising their children’s health,” Minister Hunt said.

“COVID-19 vaccines will be made available over coming months once they are approved for use by the independent Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), however it’s critical we protect our children from other harmful, contagious but vaccine preventable diseases now, through immunisation.”

Vaccination is safe and effective and the Government’s ‘Get the Facts’ about immunisation campaign encourages Australian parents and carers to get their kids vaccinated on time, every time, for the best protection.

Minister for Education and Youth, Alan Tudge said 2020 has shown the importance of the health of our families, our children and our communities.

“Around Australia, more than 330,000 students will start school for the first time in 2021 and around 4 million students returning to school,” Mr Tudge said.

“Parents need to ensure their children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

“I encourage all families to get routine vaccinations for their children against diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio and tetanus before school gates open. Not vaccinating, puts their own child at risk, but it risks the health and safety of other children too.”

Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert said families can easily check their child’s immunisation history online.

“The Medicare online account on myGov and the Express Plus Medicare mobile app will have the information on your child’s latest immunisation status,” Minister Robert said.

“I urge all families who already receive or plan to claim family assistance payments this year to check their child’s immunisation history.”

Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Subsidy can be affected if your child’s immunisation status is not up to date. Parents are encouraged to talk to their health provider about a catch up schedule if needed.

Families are also encouraged to check their other Medicare details are up to date using their online account through myGov.

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