By Danielle Kutchel
A vaccination hub at Narre Warren South P-12 College has helped take Casey’s first dose Covid vaccination numbers up to 70 per cent.
The pop-up vaccination hub at the College operated over Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 September and saw over 4000 Pfizer and AstraZeneca doses delivered into locals’ arms.
Principal Peter Thatcher said he had first approached the State Government with a suggestion for the vaccination hub after the school student vaccination blitz earlier in the month.
He said he believed the school would be a good fit for a vaccination hub given its accessibility, proximity to public transport and the fact that local families are familiar with it.
Those aged 12 and over were able to visit on the Saturday and Sunday for their vaccination, while senior college students and their families, as well as school staff, were able to get their vaccinations at the school on Friday 17 September.
“It worked really well, we had very positive feedback,” Mr Thatcher said.
He said the Afghan community had responded well to the call to get vaccinated, with the school creating a translated video to the community to provide more information on Covid vaccines.
The number of jabs delivered over the weekend helped increase Casey’s first dose up to 70 per cent.
Mr Thatcher said the successful hub would be a model for other school site vaccination pop-ups that are expected to be rolled out soon.
Approximately 70 school sites are earmarked for the initiative.
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas also visited the site and thanked the college and Monash Health for their delivery of it.
“It’s just wonderful to see the effort and dedication to deliver vaccines to areas that need them most,” he said.
“This has been an incredibly challenging and difficult time for all Victorians who have sacrificed so much to protect themselves and the community.
“That’s why it is so important that everyone gets the jab if they can, so we can open up and enjoy a more normal life in a COVIDsafe way.”
He recommended anyone seeking further information about Covid vaccines speak to their health professional.
Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccination-centres for more information on Victoria’s vaccination centres, including locations and opening hours.
Vaccination bookings and enquiries can be made on 1800 675 398 and at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment
