Over 50’s Now Eligible For COVID Vaccine Today - What You Need To Know

As of the 17th of May, people aged 50 and over are now eligible to receive the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine from selected GPs, respiratory clinics and mass vaccination hubs. Here’s what you need to know:

What if I still have questions about the vaccine? If you are concerned, or have questions about the vaccine, book an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns. Your GP knows your medical history, and will have the time to offer advice for your particular situation. It’s best to raise any questions before you go to get vaccinated, as most facilities only allocate around 5 minutes per vaccination.

When should I get the vaccine? As soon as possible, with a few exceptions. If you feel unwell, have had the flu vaccine in the last 14 days, or are planning a mammogram soon, it’s best to wait to have the vaccine. This is because your immune system may not create the best response in these circumstances, and the immune response generated can distort mammogram results.

Should I take any medication before or after the vaccine? Unless you commonly take painkillers to treat an underlying illness, avoid taking medications to control pain or fever before the vaccine, as they may reduce your immune response. If you experience any symptoms of fever or pain after the shot that worry you, you can of course treat these with medication.

The CPAP Clinic is a leading Australian provider of Respiratory, Sleep Disorders, Cardiology and PPE services and products. Based in Sydney, it has a network of 40 clinics nationwide.