DOCTORS IN SCHOOLS

We are able to provide flu vaccines in the Doctor in Schools (DiSS) Clinic for students. Some students will be eligible for a ‘free’ flu vaccine as they may fit the criteria set by the Dept of Health. Others who do not fit the criteria will need to pay for the vaccine.

In Victoria, the DHHS (Department 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 adults aged 65 years and over
• 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.
• pregnant women (during any stage of pregnancy)
• all children aged six months to less than 5 years

The DiSS Clinic can provide free flu vaccines to those students who fit the above criteria. 

The DiSS clinic can also offer 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 will need to bring the correct money to the clinic and will receive a receipt upon payment (as we do not have Eftpos facilities). To book in for the flu vaccine, the same process applies. Students need to book an appointment at the Sub-school office. 

 Melissa Vandenberg

Registered Nurse – GPs in Secondary Schools Program