Staff at Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service (NIHRACS) have been working closely with the Australian Government to secure the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccination for our residents. We are working to make sure everyone on Norfolk Island has access to safe, effective and free COVID-19 vaccines.
We are happy to announce the successful arrival of the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine to Norfolk Island earlier this week.
In line with the Australian COVID-19 vaccination rollout strategy, NIHRACs will be commencing phase 1a vaccinations this week. NIHRACS staff will be in contact with the following groups:
- Frontline healthcare workers
- Aged care residents
- Border force
- Disability support workers
Please do not phone for an appointment at this stage. There will be further announcements when the phase 1b will be available. NIHRACS are committed to keeping the community updated.
While you wait for your appointment, there are some things you can do now to get ready.
Make sure your details are correct
Make sure your details are up to date with Medicare, if you are eligible (note that you can still have a COVID-19 vaccine if you are not eligible for Medicare). You can do this via:
- The Medicare online account through myGov
- The Express Plus Medicare app.
- Calling the Medicare program.
If you don’t have your account set up, you can:
- Enrol in Medicare, if you’re not already enrolled.
- Set up your Medicare online account, if you’re enrolled in Medicare, but don’t have Medicare linked to myGov.
- Get an Individual Health Identifier (IHI), if you’re not eligible for Medicare.
Once you’ve had your vaccine, you’ll be able to get an immunisation history statement to prove your vaccination status. You can find out how to get your immunisation history statement on the Services Australia website.
Plan ahead for two doses
It is important that you receive two doses of your COVID-19 vaccine. There should be at least three weeks between the two doses if you receive the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine. Optimal protection against COVID-19 will not occur until about one to two weeks after your second dose.
In some circumstances, it may be better to have a discussion with your healthcare provider about vaccination before making an appointment for vaccination. Please phone the GP Clinic on 22091 during business hours to book a consultation.