The COVID-19 vaccine rollout has begun across Australia, however a lot of locals are wondering whether it’s safe and where they can get it?
In Serpentine Jarrahdale, the only medical centre offering the vaccine at this stage is the Byford Medical Centre, who administered their first vaccine to local Olive Busby on Tuesday.
The centre only received 80 Astra Zenica vaccines last week ahead of phase 1B of the rollout, which prioritises elderly adults aged 80 and over.
A spokesperson for the medical centre said each week 100 more vaccines will be received by the clinic, but the demand is high and a waitlist has begun.
“Once the Melbourne facility begins manufacturing and delivering the COVID-19 vaccine, we will be receiving a lot more,” she said.
“Unfortunately right now we have a limited supply and had to begin a waitlist to keep up with the calls.”
The next priority after over 80s, is elderly citizens 70 and over, then healthcare workers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults over 55, adults with a specified medical condition and adults with a disability who have a specified underlying medical condition.
Amongst those who will be priority during Phase 1B of the roll out are critical and high-risk workers including defence, police, fire and emergency services and meat processing.
These groups have been chosen as priority during the rollout as they are high-risk citizens, who are more likely to suffer greatly from COVID-19 or contract the virus.
According to staff at Byford Medical Centre, the vaccine is completely safe and the staff received their first administration of the jab on Monday.
The vaccine is administered in two doses, and the Australian government are receiving advice from an advisory group of health industry professionals on the purchasing and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines and treatments.
The COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments for Australia – Science and Industry Technical Advisory Group continues to monitor the vaccine and effects, but have deemed it safe for nation-wide roll out.
The vaccine has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration but only for individuals 16 and older.
