Jack and the Big Germ – hygiene education storybook

WA Country Health Service has launched a new illustrated children’s storybook, Jack and the Big Germ, developed by the Pilbara Health Promotion team in partnership with Aboriginal communities.

The storybook is a culturally relevant and engaging educational tool that promotes hygiene practices among Aboriginal children, aiming to prevent trachoma, scabies and other preventable conditions.

The story follows Jack, a young Aboriginal boy, who is guided by his Nanna to learn about germs – what they are, how they spread, and how simple hygiene practices can stop them.

Through storytelling, Jack and the Big Germ encourages children to wash their face and hands, brush their teeth, and avoid sharing towels — with clear, simple messages and fun illustrations.

This free resource is ideal for families, teachers and early childhood staff across various community settings, including:

• primary schools and early childhood centres
• community health clinics
• outreach programs and yarning circles
• health promotion sessions and family workshops.

You can download or view Jack and the Big Germ here or via Healthy WA’s Hand Hygiene webpage