With more COVID-19 cases likely, plan now for booster vaccine, says Mayor

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM is urging residents to prepare for an increase in COVID-19 cases in the community over the coming days and weeks.

He says it was always inevitable that the virus would circulate among the community after the Queensland border opened earlier this week, but that the region’s state-leading vaccination rate puts residents in good stead.

“The advice from our Chief Health Officer is that those who are fully vaccinated are likely to only experience mild symptoms, but we still need to be mindful of our more vulnerable loved ones,” he said.

“I also urge residents not to be complacent in using the QR check-in code and getting tested if you have symptoms.  No-one wants to be the person that spreads this virus to a loved one, especially around Christmas, and therefore it is critical that we continue with these important measures.  Living with the virus means that we still need to minimise the spread to vulnerable members of our community.

He is also encouraging everyone who has already been vaccinated to plan ahead for when they should receive their booster shot. 

“For improved protection, the current advice is to get your booster five months after your second dose,” Cr Springborg said. “That means everyone who had their vaccine during the super clinics in Goondiwindi in July will be due for their third shot in early January.

“More vulnerable residents who had their vaccine earlier in the year may already be overdue for their booster and I would encourage them to speak to their GP as soon as possible if they haven’t done so already.”

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has confirmed that the weight of evidence suggests that a booster vaccine increases antibody levels substantially and this will likely offer protection against both Delta and the new Omicron variant.

The COVID-19 vaccine booster (Pfizer and Moderna) is readily available locally in Goondiwindi pharmacies and the Goondiwindi Medical Centre. Residents are encouraged to enquire with their local health provider about when and where to receive their booster jab.

You can also find a vaccine clinic and book online at: https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines/getting-your-vaccination/locations

The Mayor’s comments follow the Queensland Premier’s announcement this morning that, as of 1 am tomorrow [18 December], masks will be mandatory across the state in shops and retail centres, hospitals and aged care, public transport, rideshare vehicles and airports and planes.

“Currently the Queensland Health approach is to increase mask wearing and managing close contacts rather than community lockdowns.  Based on this approach the Goondiwindi region will avoid returning to tighter restrictions and border closures of the past, as Queensland cases increase in the future.” Cr Springborg said.

“So, I encourage everyone to continue to practise the recommended health advice including social distancing, masks when required, good hygiene, and getting tested and staying home if you are unwell.”

As of 12 December, the Goondiwindi Region’s vaccination rate is currently the highest in the state, with 93.3% of over-15s fully vaccinated and >95% partially vaccinated.

The state average is 83.1% and 89% respectively.