COVID-19 vaccinations – what you need to know
by KinCare — 7 June 2021
The COVID-19 vaccination roll-out is in full swing across Australia. As you may know, there have been some hiccups with the rollout, so knowing when and where you can get your vaccination can be tricky. This article explains when you may be eligible to have the vaccine, how to book your appointment and what you need to take with you on the day. With winter coming, we’ve also included information about getting the flu vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and availability
Everyone in Australia will be offered the COVID-19 vaccine. Receiving the vaccine is voluntary but KinCare strongly encourages all customers and staff receive the vaccine to be better protected.
The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for older people. Millions of people living in residential aged facilities around the world have safely received the vaccine.
In Australia, the vaccine will be rolled out in phases, with different groups of people receiving the vaccination at different times.
The Federal Government announced in April people 70 years and over, as well as adults of any age with an underlying medical condition or significant disability, were eligible to receive the vaccine.
In May, the rollout began for people aged between 50-69 years old.
If you are unsure about your eligibility to get the vaccine, visit https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines and use the Vaccine Eligibility Checker. Alternatively, you can call the COVID-19 vaccine helpline on 1800 020 080.
Where to get vaccinated
When you are eligible to receive the vaccine, use the Eligibility Tracker to view vaccination locations or find a General Practitioner (GP) in your area offering the vaccine. Choose a convenient location and book your appointment.
Cost
The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone, along with the consult appointment you need to attend to receive your vaccination. Please note, there will be a free for your Transport Service to this appointment.
If you have other health issues you wish to discuss with your GP, you may need to book a separate consultation. You will be charged for this consultation.
Vaccine doses
Everyone will need to receive two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to be fully vaccinated. Check with your doctor or health professional to understand the specific time frames.
You will be asked to give your consent for both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. You can give consent for both doses at the same time.
What to bring to your appointment
Please make sure you take your Medicare card to your appointment.
If you are receiving the vaccination at a location other than your personal GP, please also bring information that states any underlying medical conditions you may have.
If you require assistance to attend your appointment, KinCare can help. Please call 1300 733 510 to make arrangements.
If you feel unwell on the day of your vaccination appointment, you should not receive the vaccine. Please cancel your appointment and reschedule when you are feeling better.
After your appointment
After you have received your vaccine, please let your KinCare Customer Care Manager or Commonwealth Home Support Programme Coordinator know so that we can update your file.
About the flu vaccination
The COVID-19 vaccine does not protect you against the flu. With winter coming, it’s a good idea to also think about getting your flu shot. The flu is highly contagious and can lead to serious illness in older people.
The flu vaccine is free for people aged 65 year and over and is available from your GP or selected chemists. Even if you had a flu shot in 2020, it’s important to be vaccinated again this year because the flu virus strains change every year. Receiving the vaccine can help prevent spread of the virus.
It is not recommended you have your COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine on the same day. Please wait at least 14 days between a dose of the flu shot and a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The information contained in this post is correct at the time of publishing. For the most up-to-date information, or if you have any questions about the COVID-19 or flu vaccinations, please speak with your doctor or health professional.