Vaccine rollout continues steadily

BALLARAT Health Services is encouraging people who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to not put it off any longer.

The clinic, in partnership with health services across the Grampians region, is expecting to deliver its 20,000th vaccine this week.

Robyn Wilson, operations director at Ballarat Health Services Grampians Public Health Unit said staff are there to answer any concerns around receiving the vaccine.

“We are seeing a strong mix of people coming in to get vaccinated,” she said.

“Most are very relieved to get vaccinated, whereas others want to get vaccinated, but are a still unsure about AstraZeneca.

“We understand this and have highly skilled nurse immunisers and a GP onsite who are taking the time to discuss individual concerns, and typical these people then feel very comfortable to proceed with the jab.”

Residents over 50 do not need an appointment and can walk into the clinic after 10am each day, while people under 50 years in phase 1a and 1b of the Federal vaccine rollout must make an appointment.

Both Pfizer and AstraZeneca require two doses and the community is encouraged to get their first dose before winter.

“I definitely do not want another repeat of last year,” said associate nurse unit manager Lucia Shepherd.

“It was a very stressful time for everyone on the frontline, and this is the best way we can move to that COVID-normal, where everyone in the community is feeling a lot safer and able to carry on with their daily lives.”