Residents roll up at pharmacies for COVID jabs

PHARMACISTS are urging more people to choose the convenience of their local pharmacy in booking their AstraZeneca vaccinations.

Hundreds of vaccines have been delivered across the Swan Hill Council and Gannawarra Shire areas since the pharmacy rollouts a month ago.

Vaccinations can be booked online or in store, with some even offering walk-in appointments.

Migrant and itinerant workers without a Medicare card can still be vaccinated if carrying identification.

Pharmacists have had hundreds of conversations, encouraging people to look at the eligibility criteria and weigh up any risks to make their decision to vaccinate.

“We did over 130 vaccinations last month, over just a few days,” Swan Hill pharmacist Rick Kent said.

“So far this month we’ve done over 130 in the first eight days.”

Vaccine clinics are run at pharmacies two or three days a week.

Pharmacies are taking bookings online at their respective websites, with some offering walk-ins on certain days when space allows.

Terry White Kerang Pharmacy has delivered 300 jabs and Barham Pharmacy about 100.

Owner and pharmacist Kin Chong said people had been keen on convenient options.

“I do them every day – because people don’t have to travel, don’t have to go to GP, the convenience has been a major plus for this vaccine rollout,” Mr Chong said.

“Every day I have numerous conversations about the pros and cons of the vaccine. That helps people make the decision to get it – or not.

“As long as you’re happy to talk about it and have an informed decision – that is very important.”

Pharmacies are expecting supplies of the Moderna vaccine in the near future.