Rauma health care services began the vaccination of schoolchildren on 16 August. Last week over 600 pupils took the vaccine in Raumanmeri and Hj. Nortamo schools. Vaccinations continue in other schools this week. It is estimated that in two weeks approximately 70 percent coverage is achieved with the first vaccine amongst the pupils.
– Vaccinations have gone well and in good spirits, even though taking the vaccine can be a nervous experience for some. The vaccinations are conducted by classes, head of Nortamo Family Center Anna Kuromaa says.
An extra vaccination event will be organized later because some of the students may have been sick or quarantined during the vaccination weeks. Vaccinations for children who are turning 12 during the rest of the year are being planned.
A pop-up vaccination event will be held for students in upper secondary education in health care services department T0 on Thursday 26 August from 10 AM to 6 PM on Steniuksenkatu 2. The event is also open for students in higher education.
According to Kuromaa the vaccination process has gone well.
– Teacher and other faculty members have been an effective help. The vaccinations have been integrated into schoolwork, and taking the vaccine has been made as easy as possible which is why the vaccinations are given at the schools, Kuromaa tells.
It is important that the guardians of the children take the vaccine because most of the infections on children originate from within the family. Achieving the highest possible vaccination rate is in the best interests of children and young people. The aim is to secure contact teaching in schools and to avoid extensive distance learning periods.
– It is highly recommended that parents and guardians take the vaccine in order to protect themselves and their children, senior physician of the family center Mari Siitari-Mattila says.
The Finnish institute for health and welfare is starting a two-week campaign to support the vaccination of children and young people. Campaign materials are distributed through the institute’s social media channels and vaccine brochures aimed at children and guardians can be found on the website.