Victorian health services central to vaccine rollout
February 24, 2021
The rollout of coronavirus vaccines began in Victoria this week with public health services playing a central role in the operation to protect those most at risk of exposure.
Marking the first day of vaccinations, Health Minister Martin Foley visited VHA member the Austin Hospital where Grace, who manages the hospital’s COVID-19 screening clinic, become one of the first high-risk workers in Victoria to receive the vaccination.
As well as outlining the Victorian Government’s support for the rollout of the Commonwealth vaccination program, Minister Foley used the opportunity to thank the wonderful health workers continuing to keep our state safe.
“We’re pleased to see the Commonwealth’s vaccination program kick-off across Victoria – and we’re ready to do our part to make sure the vaccine is administered as quickly and as safely as possible to workers at the highest risk of contracting coronavirus,” Foley said.
Pharmacist Uyen just got her COVID-19 vaccination! She's proud to a part of the specialist team who'll be vaccinating Victoria’s hotel quarantine staff – starting with the Health hotel this week. #covid19 #vaccine pic.twitter.com/gDljf4xKLk
— The Alfred (@AlfredHealth) February 22, 2021
Frontline health staff in COVID-19 screening clinics, specialist COVID-19 wards, Intensive Care Units, Emergency Departments, and more have been identified as being at the highest risk of exposure to COVID-19 alongside Hotel Quarantine and Health Hotel workers, airport and port workers, and are being prioritised for the vaccine
Victoria’s public health sector continues to play a central role in the response to COVID-19 with the introduction of hospital vaccination hubs managed by public health services. All nine hospital vaccination hubs will commence operations over the coming weeks.
Hubs will also deliver the vaccine to public sector residential aged care patients and workers, with the Commonwealth responsible for providing the vaccine to the private sector aged care and disability sectors.
VHA member Barwon Health will commence its public sector residential aged care program this week, trialling an outreach model to be implemented across regional Victoria.
The first person to receive the vaccination in Geelong was acute care nurse Jessica, who said she was excited to take the next step towards being COVID-safe.
An incredible 184 healthcare and community heroes rolled up their sleeve yesterday on day one of the COVID-19 vaccination program. We're proud of our immunisation team for delivering the most vaccinations of any hub in Victoria on this momentous day.#covid19vaccine pic.twitter.com/qjr4mgwb5o
— Barwon Health (@BarwonHealth) February 23, 2021
To learn more about the national rollout strategy click here
To learn more about Victoria’s rollout strategy click here
