Vaccine will be ‘game changer’ in fight against virus: Groom MP

The region’s federal member has urged the Darling Downs community to step forward and get their vaccination as phase 1B prepares to be rolled out.

Groom MP Garth Hamilton has described the COVID-19 vaccine as a “game changer” for the community as the next group of vaccine recipients prepare for phase 1B of the rollout.

A league of Darling Downs doctors will be some of the thousands of doctors across Australia receiving the jab under phase 1B of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout.

Mr Hamilton said it was important for community members to receive their vaccination in the “fight” against COVID-19.

“Australians eligible for Phase 1B will be able to find a vaccination provider through the new national vaccination information and location service, at the Department of Health website.”

“This will enable people to locate their nearest general practice providing General Practice Respiratory Clinic vaccinations and link through to their online booking system or phone number to make the appointment.”

“Vaccines are the game changer in our fight against the COVID-19 virus and I urge everyone in Australia to come forward and get vaccinated when they are able to.

“It will protect themselves, their family, and their community.”

Phase 1B includes vulnerable groups, such as older people and people with certain underlying medical conditions.

Federal Health and Aged Care Minister Greg Hunt said the next phase of the rollout would commence in coming weeks.

“This staged scale up will align with the supply of the locally produced AstraZeneca vaccine, and as more vaccine becomes available more services will come online,” he said.

“General practices will play a major role in ensuring all Australians who seek to be vaccinated have access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines.

“We are committed to making sure that every Australian that wants a vaccine will be able to be vaccinated.”