Hello and welcome to your latest Covid Vaccination Hub Bulletin.
The COVID leadership team is closely monitoring the evolving situation with the positive Victorian case announced by the Health Minister today. This situation is a timely reminder that things can change in an instant and the best thing we can all do right now is to get the #jabdone to protect ourselves, our colleagues and our loved ones.
Last night, the Victorian Government announced Sunshine Hospital as one of three additional high-volume COVID-19 vaccination centres to open their doors to eligible Victorians.
The Western Health team is ready.
From today, the Sunshine Hospital COVID-19 Vaccination Hub will be open to eligible* people in the Phase 1B group of the national rollout program. Further to this, the Victorian Government announced this morning that all Victorians over the age of 50 will be able to book in for their AstraZeneca vaccine from May.
The Phase 1B group includes:
People aged 70 and over
- Adults with an underlying medical condition or significant disability
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 55 years and over
- Healthcare workers currently employed and not included in Phase 1A
- Household contacts of quarantine and border workers
- Critical and high-risk workers who are currently employed including defence, police, fire, emergency services and meat processing
*Please note that when presenting for you appointment you may be required to demonstrate or self-declare eligibility.
Please encourage your family and friends to check their eligibility, find out more information and seek support for bookings and advice via the Western Health Internet. Alternatively they can call the Victoria Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.
As always staff are welcome to book or walk in for an appointment.
Please note the Hub is closed this Sunday 25 April for ANZAC Day.
These recent announcements mark significant milestones in our vaccination roll out as we work towards achieving higher levels of protection for our community members who have a greater chance of becoming seriously unwell if infected with COVID-19.
Several media organisations have covered the Sunshine Hub’s public opening today. Nurse Unit Manager Donald Johnson was interviewed on the Sunrise program, ABC Radio and Seven News.
See below for some photos of Donald in action!
As always, a big thanks to all staff who are working around the clock to prepare for, and provide an exceptional service for our community and thanks to all of you who are looking after yourselves, your colleagues and your community by getting the #jabdone.
Regards,
Shane Crowe
Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery
TOP 3 QUESTIONS
In this week’s Commonwealth Department of Health video, Professor Michael Kidd answers the following questions:
- If I am under the age of 50 and have already received the first dose of AstraZeneca, should I get the 2nd dose?
- If I am over the age of 50, why is it safe for me to get the AstraZeneca vaccine?
- What is the vaccine consent form and do I need to complete one before I get a COVID-19 vaccine?
