Specialist clinicians from the RFDS has this week launched its COVID-19 vaccination program in outback South Australia to help protect the most isolated residents of the State.
The first stop of today’s ‘fly-in’ Pfizer vaccination clinic will be held the Glendambo Hotel, located on the Stuart Highway 590 kilometres north of Adelaide, followed by flights with the vaccination team to the remote community of Kingoonya, then Commonwealth Hill and Mt Eba Stations.
The Flying Doctor team from RFDS Port Augusta Base will visit 14 locations from communities to cattle stations on the Birdsville and Oodnadatta Tracks, along the Nullarbor Plain and across to the northern Flinders Ranges during June and July.
The RFDS is delivering COVID-19 vaccination clinics as part of the national response to the pandemic, working closely with local communities, health networks and governments.
“This is the one-time opportunity for locals the chance to ‘roll up their sleeves’ and take part in the RFDS’ Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination program in outback SA,” says Natalie Szabo, RFDS Executive General Manager Health Services Development and Clinical Governance.
“We want everyone in these communities to get their vaccine and to spread the word to family, friends and work colleagues. Being vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and the ones you love against COVID-19,” Ms Szabo says.
Those eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in RFDS clinics need to be:
• aged 16 years and over;
• an existing client of the Royal Flying Doctor Service; or
• are a permanent resident of the following locations.
Clinic dates/locations:
- Monday 28 June: Nullarbor, Hiltaba
- Tuesday 29 June: Glendambo, Kingoonya, Commonwealth Hill, Mount Eba
- Wednesday 30 June: William Creek, Marla
- Thursday 1 July: Mungerannie, Arkaroola
- Friday 2 July: Lyndhurst, Blinman
- Tuesday 6 July: Marree
- Wednesday 7 July: Oodnadatta
- Thursday 8 July: Oodnadatta
“Booking a vaccination is simple for those eligible – call our dedicated 1800 592 372 number between 8.30am and 5:00pm weekdays and speak to one of our Flying Doctor staff members who will make you an appointment,” Ms Szabo said.
“When you book your first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination, you will also be booked in for your second dose 21 days later when the RFDS team returns to the same site.”
Ms Szabo added the RFDS is unable to provide COVID-19 vaccinations at the RFDS Port Augusta Base, and remote residents who cannot make the outback clinic dates would need to attend an SA Health site elsewhere for a vaccination.
How do I know the vaccine is safe?
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has been through rigorous clinical trials where it was tested on tens of thousands of people. Now, hundreds of millions of people across the world have received a COVID-19 vaccine.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration approves all vaccines, prescription medicines and medical devices used in Australia. This means the COVID-19 vaccines have been thoroughly assessed and found to be as safe as any other vaccine or medicine you take.
COVID-19 vaccine - frequently asked questions (FAQs)
