Back-to-School vaccination blitz at more than 50 Queensland schools

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced that pop-up vaccination clinics would return at more than 50 local schools to ensure that children can get vaccinated before the school year begins.

The Back-to-School vaccination blitz will kick off this weekend, Saturday 29 January and Sunday 30 January and run at selected schools until Sunday 6 February.

The blitz will target areas where vaccination rates for school-aged children need to improve.

The Premier said that the success of previous pop-up school vaccination clinics meant that bringing them back for children made sense.

“Throughout the rollout, we have worked hard to bring vaccines to Queenslanders and with children aged 5 and over now eligible for a vaccine, it’s their turn to come forward,” the Premier said.

“With the start of the school year locked in for Monday 7 February to avoid the peak of the Omicron wave, parents can take advantage of the opportunity to get their kids vaccinated.

“There is widespread community transmission of the virus reaching all corners of this state.

“Adding a vaccination to the back-to-school list for your child is the best defence.”

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said that parents could be reassured that their child’s first dose would add a layer of protection against COVID-19.

“No one wants to see their child in hospital with COVID,” said Minister D’Ath.

“We have already seen an excellent uptake of the vaccination for our kids aged 5 and over, but with school going back in February we want to see every child have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

“Whether you are heading to a pop-up vaccination clinic at your local school, a Queensland Health hub, your GP or local pharmacy – please come forward and get yourself and your kids vaccinated if you haven’t already.”

Education Minister Grace Grace thanked local schools for participating in the important vaccination program.

“Our schools have been incredibly supportive of our vaccination efforts, and they are stepping up yet again,” said Minister Grace.

“The opportunity to get your child vaccinated before school is there for the taking.

“Although recommended if available, there’s no requirement for appointments at our pop-up school clinics.

“Most of our clinics are available to all ages, including adults, so the little ones can get their first dose while Mum and Dad get their booster.

“Parents and caregivers should check the Queensland Health website for opening days and hours, and age eligibility for each site.”

For an up to date list including opening times and booking information, visit the Queensland Health vaccination locations webpage at www.health.qld.gov.au/vaccinelocations

Participating schools:

Cherbourg State School
Arundel State School
Upper Coomera State College
Gaven State School
William Duncan State School
Caningeraba State School
Biggera Waters State School
Ormeau State School
Helensvale State School
Southport State School
Coombabah State School
Labrador State School
Miami State School
Pimpama State School
Oxenford State School
Bloomsbury State School
North Lakes State College
Woodford State School
Narangba Valley State School
Undurba State School
Eatons Hill State School
Moreton Downs State School
Norris Road State School
Albany Creek State School
Strathpine State School
Ferny Grove State School
Taigum State School
Waterford State School
Jimboomba State School
Flagstone State School
Windaroo State School
Redland Bay State School
Beaudesert State School
Redlands District Special School
Palmview State School
Gympie Central State School
Gympie South State School
Beerwah State School
Coolum Beach State School
Kelso State School
Vincent State School
Oonoonba State School
Kirwan State School
Weir State School
Bohlevale State School
Wulguru State School
Rasmussen State School
Bundaberg West State School
Bundaberg East State School
Hervey Bay Yarrilee State School
Hervey Bay Sandy Strait State School
Maryborough Tinana State School
Bundaberg Central State School
Springfield Central State High School
Riverview State School