Protecting your child's health: The Importance of the School Immunisation Program Consent Form
As the new school year begins, parents across South Australia are faced with a crucial task: returning the School Immunisation Program consent form. This simple action is a powerful tool in safeguarding your child's well-being, as it enables them to receive essential vaccinations that can prevent serious diseases. But here's where it gets controversial... Are you aware that some families prefer to arrange immunizations through their GP or council clinic, and that returning a 'yes' or 'no' consent form lets the immunisation team know your decision?
The School Immunisation Program, delivered by SA Health, offers free immunizations to all Year 7 and Year 10 students in high schools across the state. These immunizations are administered by trained and qualified teams, providing protection against critical diseases. But the key to success lies in your consent.
Immunization is a vital process that strengthens the immune system, enabling it to recognize and combat specific diseases. When your child receives a vaccine, their body develops antibodies and memory cells, offering long-term protection. Before the 1960s and 1970s immunization campaigns, diseases like tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough were prevalent and often fatal. Today, thanks to ongoing immunization programs, deaths from these diseases are extremely rare in Australia.
In 2026, Year 7 students will receive a vaccine for protection against human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus affecting around 90% of people at some point in their lives. Up to 10% of these infections can lead to HPV-related cancers. They will also receive a vaccine for protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough.
Year 10 students will be immunized against meningococcal B disease, the most common type of meningococcal disease in Australia, and also receive a vaccine for protection against meningococcal ACWY strains. Although rare, meningococcal infection can be life-threatening, and its complications can be severe. Since the introduction of the meningococcal B immunisation program in South Australia in 2019, the number of cases of invasive meningococcal B disease has more than halved.
It's important to note that some students may feel anxious about immunizations. To help your child, ensure they have a good breakfast, wear loose clothing, and are feeling well on the day. Let the teacher or nurse know if they are feeling nervous or unwell or have any questions. Serious side effects after an immunization are rare, and minor side effects typically resolve within a couple of days.
If your child has missed any childhood or school immunizations, they can catch up with free immunizations. The HPV vaccine is also free for anyone under 26 years old. Check your child's immunisation history using a Medicare online account through myGov or by calling the Australian Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809.
In summary, returning the School Immunisation Program consent form is a simple yet powerful way to protect your child against life-threatening diseases. Learn more at sahealth.sa.gov.au/SIP (https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/conditions/immunisation/immunisation+programs/school+immunisation+program).
So, will you be signing and returning the consent form? What are your thoughts on school immunizations? Share your agreement or disagreement in the comments below!
