Qld Education hits out at post claiming CQ schools mandating Covid jab

Claims 50 Queensland schools are mandating Covid jabs for students has been called ‘fake news’ by the Education Department. See why the list of schools was chosen by those spreading the claims.

Education Queensland has hit out at a post circulating on social media claiming a number of schools around the state are enforcing Covid vaccinations for students.

A post listing about 50 schools around Queensland including North Rockhampton State High School and Gladstone State High School claimed the facilities listed were “implementing no parental consent for jabs and doctors being on site during school hours”.

The list also includes schools in other regional areas such as Bundaberg, Maryborough, Sarina, Kilkivan and Charleville.

The 50 schools listed in the circulating post were the same schools announced to be participating in the government’s GPs in Schools pilot program that was announced in October.

It comes as Education Minister Grace Grace announced on Monday the extra week of schooling in term 4 would not be necessary after a delayed start to the year.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Education said the department was aware of the post circulating social media and said it was “fake news”.

“The department is aware of a fake news post that has spread on social media claiming some schools are enforcing Covid-19 vaccinations for students,” the spokeswoman said.

Education Queensland has hit out at a post circulating on social media claiming a number of schools around the state are enforcing Covid vaccinations for students.

“The schools listed in the post are the ones participating in the recently announced GPs in Schools pilot program that will provide free healthcare to families.

“The post is of course not true and schools in Queensland are not enforcing Covid-19 vaccinations for students.

“While the delayed start allows more time to get as many 5–11 year-olds as possible vaccinated before they go back to school, students of all ages are able to attend school regardless of their vaccination status.

“Parents can learn more about the department’s response to COVID-19 at https://qed.qld.gov.au/covid19/frequently-asked-questions.”

In October, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the program would make a difference to thousands of students across the state.

“Every Queenslander deserves to be able to book a doctor’s appointment when they need one. But for many young people, getting in to see a GP is often difficult and expensive,” she said.

“We know that one of the greatest barriers for many young people is the difficulty in finding a GP that bulk bills.

“This will make a difference for thousands of students throughout the state.

“The last 18 months have affected us all. Our students, in particular, have had to overcome great challenges throughout the pandemic. This has undoubtedly had an impact on their health and wellbeing.”

Originally published as Qld Education hits out at post claiming CQ schools mandating Covid jab