STUDENT JAB BLITZ BEGINS
TEENS are rolling up their sleeves to receive their Covid vaccinations as part of a blitz for final-year secondary school students.
The blitz began this week and will run until September 19.
The campaign will support the pre-exam vaccination of final-year secondary students, year 11 students doing VCE unit 3 and 4 subjects, and staff required to supervise on-site examinations.
Eligible students and staff are required to book an appointment.
The Geelong College year 11 student Archie Lazzaro, who is studying VCE unit 3 and 4 physical education, received his first dose at Barwon Health’s community vaccination hub in Norlane on Friday.
The 17-year-old said he was happy to receive the jab.
More than 70,000 extra reserved first-dose appointments were added in Victoria to accommodate the blitz. A dedicated hotline has been set up for final-year students, teachers and exam supervisors to book in.
Year 12s were allowed to return to the classroom following restrictions easing in regional Victoria on Thursday night.
Community vaccination hub nurse unit manager Angela Hayes said there had been strong demand this week.
“It has been great to see so many young people getting vaccinated to protect themselves, as they head back to school during this important time leading up to exams,” she said.
It is recommended that students under the age of 18 be accompanied by a parent, trusted adult or guardian for their vaccination.
To make a booking, call the dedicated VCE/VCAL vaccination booking number on 1800 434 144 (8am – 8pm).