As the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine begins, GPs across the Municipality are urging residents to approach the situation calmly.

Speaking on behalf of other local GP’s, Dr Jackie Sloan of the Gerringong Medical Practice, says, “Vaccinating the local community will be a long process due to a limited vaccine supply initially, but we will get through everyone eventually.

“We expect the weekly supply to increase once Australian production increases.

“There is no need to panic about needing to get it done immediately, as there are no local cases or community spread at this time. In fact there have been 67 days since community spread in NSW.

“We are all keen to do our bit to protect our community, and are supporting each other to get the job done thoroughly, and are asking the community for patience.”

Almost all of the local practices have registered for the vaccine roll-out, and some have already received their vaccine supplies. Others will start to receive their supply in the coming weeks. 

To find out if you are eligible for a COVID-19 Vaccine please refer to the Vaccines Eligibility Checker. If you are eligible you will be able to click on the 'make a booking' link and that will bring up the local practices which have already received a supply. As stated above, this will increase to most practices in the coming few weeks.

“Each GP Practice will be running their COVID-19 immunisation program slightly differently - please refer to the individual practice websites for their preferred method of contact and booking procedure,” says Dr Sloan.

“This is to ensure that our front desks aren’t overwhelmed by individual enquiries about the same thing.

“If, after looking at the website, individuals still have concerns or questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, they are encouraged to make an appointment with their usual GP to discuss this.”

One factor to keep in mind is that flu vaccinations are also expected within the coming month.

“Many individuals may receive their Influenza vaccination before their COVID-19 vaccine,” says Dr Sloan.

“There must be a two week period between COVID-19 and any other vaccine, including the flu vaccine.”

A second COVID-19 shot is required 12 weeks after the first.

Dr Sloan says she has been heartened by the collective spirit being shown amongst the local medical community to get the job done.

“We are all very pleased to be involved in minimising the risk of COVID-19 to our patients,” she says.

“It has been a tough year for everyone, but we are grateful the effort made by the whole community to keep us all safe.”