July 2021
Dear all, it has been a while since I blogged, a tricky time for all. Reflecting back, twelve months ago there was speculation we may never have a vaccine against this virus. Fast-forward twelve months, the world will become we hope a safer place with the development of a number of vaccination strategies , including two available in Australia.
Many of my patients are particularly vulnerable to this virus, if they have advanced cancer, undergoing chemotherapy , or simply because of their age or other health issues. However, recent transmission of the Delta variant with illness occuring even in young, previously healthy people tells us noone is guaranteed safety from COVID19.
I strongly recommend you all get vaccinated. If aged 60 and over, you can access the AZ vaccine and i strongly urge you to do so. The TTS (thrombosis/ thrombocytopenia syndrome) associated with the AZ vaccine is exceedingly rare and far outweighed by the protection provided against death and serious illness from COVID 19. If you are under 60, ATAGI has recommended non-AZ vaccines (Pfizer and later in the year, Moderna) but the decision about waiting for access to these vaccines or receiving AZ now might be aided by a discussion with your GP or myself. AZ is a highly effective vaccine that is worthy of consideration even in younger age groups who want to move forward with vaccination immediately. Remember you won’t achieve adequate immunity from COVID 19 till your second shot. For the AZ vaccination, the interval between shots is 12 weeks, based on current recommendations. My comments as of today July 26th may not be relevant if the community numbers of COVID19 change in the next few months.
You can book a vaccine through coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment or at Austin Health https://www.austin.org.au/getvax/.
