Ash Bolt
Barwon Health is encouraging all eligible community members to book in for a booster vaccination as case numbers spike in the region.
There were 29 cases detected in Greater Geelong on Tuesday and 25 today, with 25 patients in University Hospital Geelong with COVID-19 on Tuesday morning, including eight in intensive care.
The average age of the patients was 48.
There were now 283 active cases across Greater Geelong.
Barwon South West Public Health Unit director Professor Eugene Athan said it was important everyone continued to get vaccinated when they could.
“We have seen a recent spike in COVID-19 cases across the board, including hospitalisations, so we urge anyone still requiring a first or second vaccination to get vaccinated as soon as possible,” he said.
“The recent discovery of Omicron variant is also an important reminder to get vaccinated.
“For many, the news of the new Omicron variant may cause stress and worry.
“However the message at this stage is that it is too early to know what this new variant will mean.
“But it is an important reminder that we should not become complacent when managing and responding to COVID-19.”
Professor Athan said at least 55 per cent of people who had received a vaccination at Barwon Health and were eligible for a booster had already received the jab.
“We will be closely monitoring the uptake of boosters as we know this is a crucial part of the vaccination program,” he said.
“I urge anyone who is currently due for their booster now to book in as soon as possible.
“A COVID-19 booster dose helps prevent waning immunity and increased protection against COVID-19.
“Eligible people will receive the Pfizer vaccine as their booster dose. They can safely get this Pfizer booster dose regardless of which COVID-19 vaccine they received for their initial doses.
A booster dose will continue to protect you, your loved ones and your community against COVID-19.
“People can also get a booster dose if they have completed an initial vaccination course overseas with a COVID-19 vaccine recognised by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.”
Barwon Health’s Community Vaccination Hub in Norlane is now offering booster doses to everyone who received their second dose vaccination more than six months ago.
“Our vaccination team have also begun offering in reach booster vaccinations to staff and residents of public residential aged care facilities across the Barwon South West region to ensure the most vulnerable people in our region are protected,” Professor Athan said.
Booster dose walk-ins are currently available at the Community Vaccination Hub in Norlane or appointments can be made by calling 1800 675 398 or online at portal.cvms.vic.gov.au.
The Community Vaccination Hub in Norlane is open Monday to Saturday from 8.30am-3.30pm.
Booster doses are also being offered by GPs and pharmacies across the region.
