MORE than 900 residents in Mid North Coast and Northern NSW aged care facilities have already received their first vaccination.

However North Coast residents are being urged to be patient as the COVID-19 vaccination rollout continues, as health care workers are urged to consider the extreme weather conditions.

As the staged rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine continues, Phase 1b vaccinations supplies are due to start over the coming weeks.

Participating general practices and Aboriginal medical services will start offering vaccination appointments to their existing eligible patients.

Phase 1b is for the over 70s, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over 55, adults with a specified medical condition, health care workers and critical high-risk workers.

There are more than 100 practices participating in this phase and many people will be able to get vaccinated by their own GP.

If you are eligible under Phase 1b but your general practice isn’t offering the program make an appointment with your nearest participating General Practice Respiratory Clinic.

Healthy North Coast CEO Julie Sturgess said there’s strong interest from the community in the COVID-19 vaccine.

“We’ve been pleased that so many residents are keen to get vaccinated in this next phase, however, it’s important to take the time to check your eligibility before making an appointment or calling your GP,” Ms Sturgess said.

“If your GP is taking part in the vaccination program rollout, you may be contacted directly by the practice, when it is timely, about receiving your vaccination,” Mr Sturgess said.

“All eligible Australians will have the opportunity to have this vaccination in the coming months.

“While there is low risk of contracting COVID-19 in our region at this current time, we need to stay COVID safe.

Ms Sturgess said to use this opportunity while waiting to do some practical and helpful things.

“Take this time to ensure your Medicare details are correct, continue to practice good hygiene, keep on top of local restrictions and understand how to isolate if you need to. If you’re feeling unwell, get tested.”

And despite the extreme weather on Wednesday this week vaccinations by our NSW Health Local Health Districts began for health care workers.

Caution is being urged however for those workers scheduled to get their vaccination that may be affected by the extreme weather conditions.

Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said, “Our staff who are scheduled to attend a vaccination appointment at the Coffs Harbour hub in the coming days are being advised to exercise caution and only travel to receive their vaccination if it is safe to do so.

“Anyone who isn’t able to attend their appointment due to the current extreme weather situation will be rescheduled.

“We are closely monitoring the current weather situation and any potential impact on our health facilities throughout the district, including Coffs Harbour Health Campus COVID-19 vaccination hub.

As record rainfall and strong winds continue across the region, Mr Dowrick thanked staff at local hospitals and community health centres for their tireless efforts to keep the community safe.

“I also want to thank the great many of our team who volunteer with local emergency organisations such as the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service,” said Mr Dowrick.

“They’re out there right now transporting medication to those cut off by floodwaters.”

 

By Sandra MOON