Booster interval shortened to three months

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Greater Geelong residents will now only have to wait three months to get their booster vaccination, with the state government reducing the interval this week.

Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement on Wednesday, ahead of the start of a vaccination blitz.

Mr Andrews said the reduced timeframe of three months was recommended by Victoria’s public health team to increase booster vaccination rates before school and work resumed in full.

The change means 1.2 million Victorians are now eligible for the booster.

“This is a big push. Thousands of appointments are available, walk-in capacity has been expanded, opening hours have been extended, and more vaccinators will be on the floor,” Mr Andrews said.

“If you got your second dose in October or earlier, now’s the time to come along to one of our major state-run centres this weekend and get your third, to protect yourself and the community for the busy year ahead.”

Barwon Health has added more appointments for Sunday and chief executive Frances Diver encouraged every eligible to get their booster.

“Vaccination rates are going really well in our community. I’m thrilled with how the community has responded,” she said.

“That is the single most important thing the community can do, get your booster shot when you become eligible.

“More appointments are made available all the time at our community locations, but pharmacies and GPs are also available.”