GPs, pharmacies ‘swimming’ in vaccines but urge people to book ahead

GPs and pharmacies have so much Covid vaccine they are tossing out supplies that have expired, but are urging people eligible for a fourth dose to book, not just walk in.

General practices are “swimming” in vaccines as people 50 and over become eligible for a fourth jab from Monday, but officials warn people need to book to secure their shot slot.

Royal Australian College of GP SA & NT chairman Dr Daniel Byrne said there is plenty of vaccine available and urged people who are eligible for a booster to get one – stressing there are many people who are still to get their third shot.

“There is plenty of vaccine available; we are swimming in it and are actually chucking some out because it is expiring,” he said.

“GPs definitely will be ready but don’t expect to just rush in on Monday – people need to plan ahead and make a booking.

“With the new variants people who are eligible really should be getting their fourth shot. I’d also very much encourage people who have not had their third shot to book in for it now, there is a surge in cases and people need to protect themselves as best they can.”

Leigh and Janna Schneebichler with their newborn Jett and son Ari. Janna is happy to get a fourth Covid jab. PHOTO: Brenton Edwards

Under the changes, from Monday the fourth shot is recommended for people aged 50 and over, while people aged 30-49 can also get a shot based on their own decision rather than as a government recommendation.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia SA president Nick Panayiaris said pharmacies will have adequate supplies and also urged people to book ahead.

“Most pharmacies have adequate stocks and if they are low they will order more and it comes through pretty quickly,” he said.

“Ideally people wanting a fourth shot should book online.”

While some pharmacies accept walk-ins, Mr Panayiaris noted staff are not immune from Covid and if there are sudden staff shortages they will concentrate on their core business of dispensing medicine ahead of vaccinations.

All Australians over the age of 50 are encouraged to get a fourth dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, while those over 30 are also able to access the fourth jab if they wish to.

The efficacy of Covid vaccines begins to wane after four months. A US study found the ability of a third vaccine dose to prevent infection was 87 per cent two months after receiving a third jab but dropped to 66 per cent four months later.

Here’s what you need to know about your fourth dose.

Originally published as GPs, pharmacies ‘swimming’ in vaccines but urge people to book ahead