[Boy]
Mummy, what is COVID-19 ?
[Mother]
COVID-19 is a sickness caused by germs too small for our eyes to see.
[Father]
This means it’s easy to spread without you knowing.
You could catch it just by being very close to a person with COVID-19.
[Boy]
Mum, what happens if I get sick from COVID-19?
[Mother]
Oh well, COVID-19 is a sickness that is different for everyone.
[Father]
It could give you a headache, sore throat, cough or a fever.
This means while you’re sick, you need to stay at home.
[Girl]
Dad, why do I need a needle?
[Father]
You need a needle so you and others can stay strong and healthy.
The medicine in the needle will help your body to know how to fight off COVID-19
and it will stop you from getting really, really sick.
[Mother]
After you get the needle, you can keep having fun
[Girl]
Where are we going to get it?
[Mother]
We can get it from the doctor, the pharmacy, or even the hospital.
Where would you like to go?
[Boy]
Can we go to the Doctor please?
[Girl]
Mom, can we go to the chemist near the ice cream shop?
[Girl]
Can the nurse do ours please?
[Girl]
Mom, will it hurt?
[Mother]
It will feel like an ant bite for a couple of seconds and then it will be over.
If you’re scared, you can bring a toy or even hold my hand.
[Boy]
Can I go and play after I get it?
[Mother]
After the needle, you might feel tired for the rest of the day.
[Father]
If you feel tired, you should rest.
We can have some indoor play time or even watch a movie.
[Mother]
But if you feel ok, you can play.
[Boy & Girl]
Yay!
[Girl]
How many times do I have to get the needle?
[Mother]
You will need just 2 needles 8 weeks apart.
When you get the 2 needles, it means you have the best chance to fight off COVID-19.
Some children who are aged 12 to 15 years are recommended to get additional doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor if you are not sure what’s right for your child
For more information please visit health.gov.au
Or call 1800 020 080 and press 8 if you need a free interpreter