The COVID-19 vaccination is currently the most effective method of protecting against the spread of coronavirus. The vaccination itself is quick and almost painless, but there are a few things you can do in advance to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Check your details
You do not need a Medicare account to get a COVID-19 vaccine. If you do have an account, you should make sure that your details are up to date. You can do this online or over the phone. If you do not have an account, you can apply for an Individual Health Identifier. You will need this in order to get your immunisation history statement to prove that you have had the vaccine.
Schedule the second dose
You need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for maximum protection. The second dose will need to be at least two weeks after the first for the Pfizer vaccine, and about twelve weeks later for the AstraZeneca vaccine. You should make sure you will be able to attend this second vaccination, as you will be much more vulnerable to coronavirus if you do not receive it.
Make sure you are fit to attend
It is vital that you do not attend the appointment if you have any possible symptoms of COVID-19, such as a cough or a fever. You should also not attend if you have tested positive or if you are waiting for the result of a COVID-19 test. Although vaccines are effective in preventing the serious effects of COVID-19, they will not help you if you already have the virus. You should also not attend if you have been in close contact with anyone else who has tested positive or if you are in quarantine for any other reason. If any of the above apply, you should get in touch with your provider to make a new appointment. You should also tell your provider if you have been vaccinated for any other illness within the week before the appointment.
Bring the right information
You should bring some identification to your appointment and your Medicare card if you have one. You should also bring any information about your medical conditions, any medication you are taking and information about any reactions to vaccines that you have experienced in the past.
The COVID-19 vaccine is a safe and simple procedure that will protect you and your family from the effects of the coronavirus. Make sure you are prepared and the appointment should go smoothly. Contact a local medical professional if you have questions about how to make a COVID-19 vaccination appointment.
