In a historic milestone for the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, all South Australians aged 16 and over are now able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at state-run clinics from today.
Premier Steven Marshall said all eligible South Australians can now book a vaccination appointment at one of the many State Government-operated sites across the state.
“The COVID-19 vaccination program is our doorway out of the pandemic and opening up access to the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine to South Australians aged 16 to 39 is a significant milestone in our rollout,” said Premier Marshall.
“Getting the vaccine into the arms of South Australians is the best way that we can keep our state’s population safe and our economy strong.
“Last week South Australia smashed the record for the number of vaccine doses delivered with more than 87,000 South Australians rolling up their sleeves to get the jab.
“South Australians have received more than a million vaccine doses, and from today, about 350,000 additional people are now eligible to receive their vaccine as part of this expansion of the rollout.
“Today’s nation-leading move will provide even more opportunities for younger South Australians to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated so they can protect themselves, their families and their community.”
Those eligible can identify their nearest clinic and schedule an appointment through the online booking system.
Very high levels of interest are expected so people are asked to be patient and to check the website regularly for new appointments that become available and as supplies increase.
Regional South Australians aged 16 or over have already been able to get vaccinated at one of the many regional state-run clinics since May, and by further extending the eligibility to everyone 16 years and over, we will see more doses in the arms of South Australians.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the extension of the rollout eligibility is a great opportunity for younger South Australians to get vaccinated.
“We want to ensure every South Australian has access to the vital vaccine as soon as possible, and today we have become the first state in the nation to extend eligibility to everyone aged 16 or over,” said Minister Wade.
“We know that supply is set to ramp up significantly from September and that’s why we have added an additional 127,000 appointments from next month to give those under 40 more available opportunities to get the vaccine,” Minister Wade said.
“By extending the rollout eligibility and boosting supplies of vaccines across our state, we are continuing to scale up the rollout and deliver the vaccine to more South Australians, both in metropolitan and regional communities across the state.”
Chief Public Health Officer, Prof Nicola Spurrier said vaccination is highly effective and the best form of prevention from COVID-19.
“Extending the rollout to younger South Australians will help us to further protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities,” Prof Spurrier said.
“Anyone aged 16 to 59 is eligible to receive either the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccine, and those aged 60 years and over will receive the AstraZeneca vaccine.”
People under 60 who wish to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine should make an informed decision by speaking with their vaccination provider at their appointment.
South Australians can check their eligibility and book in for a vaccination at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/covidvaccine.
