The North Coast has hit a fully vaccinated rate of 80%, with the first-dose rate sitting at 93%.
The first dose rate is ahead of the national average of 88% and in coming weeks will flow through to double doses.
Healthy North Coast Chief Executive Officer Julie Sturgess paid tribute to the community and to health providers.
‘Across the greater North Coast area, our GPs, Aboriginal medical services and community pharmacies have administered about 75% of all COVID-19 vaccinations, or more than 560,000 jabs in arms,’ Ms Sturgess said.
Ms Sturgess said about 3% of doses were administered in residential aged care or disability facilities and 22% by NSW Health.
‘Even as vaccination rates continue to rise, we also know the virus will continue to circulate in all communities, particularly with easing of restrictions and arrival of visitors to our region,’ she said.
‘With high rates of immunity, though, we expect most COVID cases going forward can be managed at home or with support from your GP, so we are working closely with GPs and other primary health care providers as we all learn to live with COVID.’
Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated can use the Vaccine Clinic Finder to book an appointment.
How to protect yourself and others
- Get a COVID-19 vaccination.
- Always check in and out, wherever you can.
- Wear a face mask when required.
- Get tested if you have the mildest of symptoms – even if you have been double vaccinated.
- Self-isolate until you get a negative test result.
- Practise good hygiene. Wash your hands often and well.
- Gather outdoors or in large well-ventilated indoor spaces.
- Physically distance where you can.
