Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about where you stand with the COVID-19 vaccination rollout is the advice from the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA).
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
RDAA President, Dr John Hall, said many people just don't have an answer as to where they sit when it comes to the vaccine issue.
"The recent changes to the AstraZeneca vaccine recommendations to use only on patients 60 and over have increased people's uncertainty around the risks associated with vaccination, and also their eligibility for the two vaccines," Dr Hall said.
"There are many patients out there who just don't know the answers, and it is important that they have the ability to talk this through with their GP, who is qualified and actually has all the information, rather than relying on what they may have heard through the media, via their friends, or even in the line at the supermarket," Dr Hall said.
Dr Hall added that communication was key to getting your questions answered.
"We encourage anyone who is uncertain about what they should to in regards to vaccination, to make an appointment to discuss this with their regular rural GP, who knows their medical history, who understands their concerns, and who can address them with accurate information," he said.
According to the RDAA the previous changes in the storage protocols for the Pfizer vaccine will make it easier for this to be rolled out via General Practice as it becomes available, and in the meantime, AstraZeneca continues to be administered to those who are still eligible.
"If you have had your first AstraZeneca vaccine, it is recommended to proceed with your second jab," Dr Hall said.
"However it is understandable that some people have questions, so talk to your doctor about how you continue your vaccine program to ensure you are protected from COVID-19.
"If you are yet to be vaccinated and are now no longer in the recommended group for AstraZeneca due to the age change, find out when you will be able to secure your Pfizer jab and work to that plan."
He urged people to make a vaccine plan.
"Don't wait for the next wave of the virus to arrive before taking action. Make your vaccine plan today," Dr Hall said.
"Use the information from your GP to make an informed choice and action it."
