Greater uptake of AstraZeneca vaccine at Sydney community clinics

Some Sydney residents are feeling less hesitant about getting vaccinated with AstraZeneca due to greater education.

This is according to Sydney local health district nurse manager Sarah Fletcher, who said there was a greater uptake of the vaccine at community pop-up vaccination clinics recently.

"Initially, we found some people were hesitant about the AstraZeneca vaccine but with the support of local trusted GPs and staff in our clinics providing information and education, they realised that AstraZeneca is safe," Ms Fletcher said.

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"We have seen a real uptake since we started."

Nurses in the Sydney local health district have been running community pop-up vaccination clinics since late July.

"We have focused on the south-western pocket of our district in suburbs such as Lakemba, Greenacre, Campsie and Riverwood and other areas with vulnerable populations, such as Glebe, Redfern and Waterloo," Ms Fletcher said.

"Our community pop-up clinics have been extremely successful because they remove the barriers to accessing a vaccine.

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"Some people don't have phones or computers or Medicare cards, some people don't have transport and many don't have English as a first language."

Since July 28, nurses have administered more than 7500 vaccinations across Sydney at the pop-up sites.

"This is a phenomenal response from the community and we look forward to seeing even more people come along," Ms Fletcher said.

Ms Fletcher said receiving a vaccine is a simple process.

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"Firstly, vaccinations are free, you don't need a referral or a Medicare card," she said.

"Just come along with your ID and if you are eligible, you can receive your vaccination then and there.

"When you get there, you will be greeted by our staff, and to guide you through to get your vaccine, we have a wonderful team of cultural support workers, interpreters and administrative support staff."

Ms Fletcher said before the vaccination, people will be asked simple health questions and be provided with information about the vaccine.

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"You will always have the opportunity to ask any questions before you go any further," she said.

"The vaccine itself is very quick to administer. Once you roll up your sleeve it takes seconds and our amazing vaccination staff will make the process as comfortable for you as possible.

"Once you have had your vaccine, you will wait for a short time in an observation area in our care so we can make sure you're well immediately after getting your vaccine.

"Once you have been given the all-clear from the staff, you are good to go."

Visit the NSW Health website for more information about COVID-19 vaccinations.