The first of Tasmania's year 11 and 12 students will begin getting the Pfizer vaccine from Monday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Starting at Elizabeth College in the state's South, up to 800 students will be vaccinated in clinics run by the Health and Education departments.
Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff said six nurse immunisers will be on-site from Monday to Wednesday, with teachers also able to get vaccinated if they haven't already.
The roll-out is expected to progress to schools in the North and North-West shortly after additional southern clinics in September.
Part of the government's Super Six vaccine blitz, Mr Rockliff said college clinics had been brought forward with the aim of minimising disruption to student's study and examination schedule.
"This age group has also been prioritised in recognition that they are socially active and are key drivers of transmission of the Delta variant of COVID-19 across the country," he said.
"Whilst vaccinations in this cohort is not mandatory evidence from across the world shows that by getting vaccinated, people are less likely to pass the virus onto others.
"By taking up the offer of a vaccine young people will protect their families, loved ones and the wider community."
Mr Rockliff said students, parents and guardians were strongly encouraged to discuss the vaccine beforehand and complete the consent form together, but in some circumstances students may be able to give their own consent following discussions with a nurse immuniser.
Vaccine information resources will be provided to parents and students ahead of vaccination day.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.examiner.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @examineronline
- Follow us on Instagram: @examineronline
- Follow us on Google News: The Examiner