Did you know that Paddington Central Pharmacy has started offering AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccinations? It’s one of 530 pharmacies across Queensland now authorized to deliver the jab.
According to the pharmacy, they can administer AstraZeneca vaccinations for people from 18 to 59 years old for the first or second doses even if the individual has gotten the first jab elsewhere.
On their first two days of offering the vaccine, Paddington Central Pharmacy had at least 50 people vaccinated. Pharmacist Simon Sponza said that young people have been eager for the AstraZeneca jab as they couldn’t get access to Pfizer or Moderna.
However, prior to the injection, a consultation will take place with the pharmacists for 10 to 15 minutes to ensure that the person makes an informed choice. The individual will also be required to stay for 15 minutes for observation after the vaccination.
Dr Jeannette Young, Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, said that whilst AstraZeneca vaccine is ideally suited for the 60 years old and above, adults willing to be vaccinated to protect themselves against the highly transmissible Delta variant should talk to their GP about getting AstraZeneca before booking for a slot at the vaccination centres.
Pharmacy Guild Queensland acting president Chris Owen said that pharmacies in the region have the capacity to help with the vaccination rollout but the current supplies are AstraZeneca. However, they will also offer Pfizer and Moderna vaccines once the stocks arrive.
Pre-booking online is highly suggested but walk-ins may be possible at some pharmacies, depending on the supplies. Those without booking may also expect an extra 10 to 15 minutes to fill out the forms.
Slots for online bookings at Paddington Central Pharmacy are from 11:00 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. If you prefer another pharmacy, you may also check online, input your postcode, and click on your preferred site for the booking details.