A new vaccination hub has opened at One Tree Werribee West Kindergarten on Ballan Road, as part of a collaboration between Wyndham council and Western Health.
Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax vaccines are available to eligible people and the centre is accepting appointments and walk ins.
Western Health Public Health Unit and COVID-19 Response divisional director, Kate Cranwell said the hub would make it even easier for residents to receive their free COVID-19 vaccinations by opening a new vaccination hub close to home.
“Getting vaccinated protects you against COVID-19, helps prevent you from getting seriously ill and reduces the spread of COVID-19 to others,” Ms Cranwell said.
“We are currently seeing many cases and hospitalisations as a result of the BA.4 and 5 sub-variants of COVID-19 circulating in our community.
“These sub-variants are more transmissible, which means there are more cases in the community and even if a small proportion of these cases require hospitalisation, this can put a strain on health services.”
Ms Cranwell said there are a few steps people could do to prevent and manage COVID-19 infection, including wearing a well-fitting mask when indoors with other people or unable to socially distance and staying up to date with COVID-19 and flu vaccinations.
If you have cold or flu like symptoms, Ms Cranwell recommends getting tested and talking to your GP to see if you are eligible for COVID-19 treatment before you become unwell.
“If you tested positive for COVID-19 more than 4 weeks ago you must get tested if you become a close contact or if you are feeling unwell,” Ms Cranwell said.
“Immunity from previous COVID-19 infection is not as effective against the BA.4 and 5 sub-variants.”
The centre will be open for residents from Thursday – Monday, and is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Details: portal.cvms.vic.gov.au.
