MODERNA vaccine supply is officially on its way to Swan Hill and Gannawarra, with appointments available from as early as next week.
Kerang’s Terry White Chemist has confirmed it will be receiving stock in the next few days, with bookings available from Tuesday September 28.
Pharmacist Kin Chong says it is excellent news for younger demographics.
“The good thing is Moderna is recommended for anyone between the ages of 12 and 59,” Mr Chong said.
“We’re trying to fill in as many spaces as possible.
“People should book on the website, so we can get the vaccine rate even further than it is already.”
Swan Hill Priceline Pharmacy is receiving stock next week, with appointments open from Monday October 4 onwards.
“We are expecting that younger age group that are unvaccinated to start to come forward,” pharmacist Kelly Atkinson said.
“We’re vaccinating most days; Moderna will be Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and AstraZeneca will go back to Thursdays and some weekends.”
The local vaccination rate has stayed steady in Swan Hill, with around 500 doses a week administered at Priceline Pharmacy.
“We’re roughly doing 100 a week, it will probably slow down this week and next, as people know Moderna is coming,” Ms Atkinson said.
“Tradies have been told they have to be vaccinated by a certain date too, so we’ll start getting more of them in.”
Meanwhile things have slowed in Kerang, with just 58 doses administered in the last week.
“AstraZeneca uptake has been a bit slower now, but there’s still some there,” Mr Chong said.
“It’s also a combination of first doses and second doses – most people have had their first dose somewhere else, and are getting their second dose from us now.”
Mr Chong said it was important people’s stayed consistent with their vaccine types.
“If your first jab was AstraZeneca, your second needs to be AstraZeneca,” Mr Chong said.
“And it’s vital you get your second dose – make sure you book in for your second appointment while you’re there.
“Once we’re double vaxxed, that’s our way out of this mess!”
