Doctor in School Program

Flu Vaccinations

In Victoria, the DHHS (Department of Health and Human Services) have stated the following people are eligible to receive a free seasonal influenza vaccine:

• all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged from six months
• all people aged from six months with medical conditions putting them at an increased risk of severe influenza and it’s complications: Eg: Cardiac disease, chronic respiratory disease (severe asthma), chronic neurological conditions, immunocompromising conditions, diabetes and other metabolic disorders, renal disease, hematological disorders, children aged six months to 10 years on long term asprin therapy.

The DiSS Clinic can provide free flu vaccines to those students who fit the above criteria. The DiSS clinic will also be offering flu vaccines for $14.00 to students who do not meet the above criteria for a free flu vaccine, but who still wish to have their flu vaccine at the clinic. Students are to bring the correct money to the clinic and will receive a receipt upon payment. To book in for the flu vaccine, the same process applies. Students need to book an appointment at the school office (please advise if the appointment is for a flu vaccine).

DON’T TAKE THE RISK THIS SEASON: GET THE FLU VACCINE

Your best defence against the flu is with the flu shot. Everyone should get an annual flu shot anytime from mid-April onwards to be protected for the peak of flu season. However, it is never too late to be vaccinated as the flu can spread all year round. 

Melissa Vandenberg

Registered Nurse – GPs in Secondary Schools Program