Local pharmacies in our area are joining in the campaign to boost vaccination numbers, now that they are allowed to do so.

Todd Marion says Kiama Pharmacy has received its supply of Astra Zeneca ahead of the expected date, and will begin administering the shots from next Monday, 16 August.

“The Government is wanting to make vaccinations as convenient and accessible as possible, and that is why pharmacies have been brought into the mix,” he says.

“We have been assured there is plenty of Astra Zeneca around now, and the message is the best vaccine is the one that is available.

“Possible concerns have been well publicised, but it is really down to an informed consent process now after being advised of the risks and benefits.

“Given the fact that the pandemic is accelerating it really does change the interpretation of these risks and benefits.

“Anyone over 18 can now get Astra Zeneca.”

Locals queue for testing after the announcement of a casual contact visiting Woolworths

Mr Marion participated in a webinar for Pharmacy Guild members which heard from Lieutenant General John Frewen, the man now heading Australia’s vaccine rollout.

“He made it clear that pharmacies were being brought on earlier to push the vaccination rates up. The more places promoting vaccinations, the more people are going to get them.”

Three other pharmacies – Kiama Health Destination, Kiama Blooms Chemist and Gerringong Pharmacy – are expecting supplies shorty, so they can join in the campaign.

A ring around of local doctors’ surgeries shows that their supplies have increased too, and people are likely to get an appointment for a vaccination within a week of calling.

Mr Marion recommends people get information about vaccines from the Federal Health Department.