There are four different types of COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Australia.  There are the Astra Zeneca recombinant vaccine, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines and the protein based Novovax.  

At Kiama Medical Practice we are providing the Pfizer vaccines only from early March.  This includes the newer bivalent Pfizer vaccine for those 18 years and over.  If you prefer a different type of vaccine these are available with other healthcare providers.

You can read more information about all the approved COVID-19 vaccines here    Approved COVID-19 Vaccines

 

When you arrive for your vaccine we will need to confirm your identity and medicare eligibility.  

Please wear appropriate clothing to be able to expose your upper arm for your vaccine.

If you are having your first dose of a different vaccine type, or your previous dose was given elsewhere, you will need to complete a consent form.  

 

 

 

As with any vaccine, you may have some temporary side effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine and this is a sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine. Common side effects after each of the COVID vaccine include:

• injection site pain or tenderness
• tiredness
• headache
• muscle pain or joint pain
• fever and chills

Side effects are more common after the first dose for the AZ vaccine, and the second dose for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines .  Most side effects are mild and temporary, going away within 1-2 days. As with any medicine or vaccine, there may be rare and/or unknown side effects.

 

Rare side effects include anaphylaxis (life threatening allergic reaction),  atypical blood clotting disorder known as TTS with AZ vaccine, myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart) with Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.  See the links below for more information about possible side effects

 

 What to expect after your AstraZeneca vaccine

What to expect after your Pfizer vaccine

 

 

Please seek medical attention after your vaccine if you experience any of the following:

• signs of anaphylaxis such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, racing heart or collapsing - please call 000
• signs of blood clotting disorder between 4 and 42 days following an AZ vaccine - headache persisting for more than 48 hours, blurred vision, weakness in face or limbs, confusion or seizures, shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling or persistent abdominal pain
• signs of myocarditis or pericarditis following Pfizer or Moderna vaccines - chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heart beat or racing heart, fainting
• if you are worried about a new or persisting symptoms

 

Because these are newer vaccines the health authorities are keeping a close eye on adverse effects, and you are encouraged to report even minor side effects.  You can report vaccine side effects by calling 1300 134 237 (8am-8pm seven days a week – the NPS MedicineWise Adverse Medicine Events line)  or make an online report about vaccine side effects  here.

 

Immunisations  including COVID and influenza are uploaded to the Australian Immunisation Register at the end of each day.  Consumers can obtain an immunisation history statement to prove their vaccination status through

• Medicare Online Account through MyGov
• Medicare Express Plus app - this can also be added to your smart phone wallet and Service NSW app
• My Health Record

You can also request your immunisation history by phoning the Australian Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809.  This will be mailed and can take up to 14 days.