How to speak to kids about vaccines

The safety of the Australian population has always been the Australian Government’s highest priority. For this reason, decisions regarding vaccines have been, and continue to be, based on the expert medical advice of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI). Start a conversation and listen to your child’s response Start a conversation with your child and invite them to share what they have heard about vaccines. It’s important to listen to their responses and acknowledge any fears they have about being vaccinated. For example: • Tell me what you know so far about vaccines. • Have you ever had a vaccine before? • What did that feel like? The chances are your child has had a vaccine before and it may not have been so bad. Answer your child’s questions. Have some kid-friendly responses ready to go for any questions your child might have. Here are some of the key questions and answers that might help in this conversation: What is a vaccine? A vaccine is a medicine that helps people fight a virus if they come in contact with it. It can stop people from getting very sick. Why do I need to be vaccinated? Vaccination is a safe way to protect you, your family, and your friends from getting sick. Use real examples, such as protecting the child’s grandparents, and being able to get back to school and back to team sports if you think this will help. How do vaccines work? Vaccines work by teaching your body how to fight illness. Is the vaccine safe? Vaccines are very safe. In Australia, they have been tested thoroughly by an agency that makes sure all medicines are safe. They would not be given to people if they were not safe. In addition, screening questions are asked before every vaccine to determine everyone on a case-by-case basis. More information. You can visit the Department of Health website at https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation?language=und  for more information about vaccines. If you need information in a language other than English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450. If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, you can call the National Relay Service on 133 677.