Department of Health – Primary Health Care COVID-19 Response Teleconference 8 December  2021 – Meeting notes from Dr Maria Boulton

The Primary Care Implementation Group (PCIG) is an online meeting that includes most primary healthcare peak bodies. It is convened weekly by the Department of Health as part of the COVID-19 response. Dr Maria Boulton attends on behalf of the AGPA. General Notes from the Meeting

COVID vaccines in 5-11 year olds:

• There are 2.3 million children in the 5-11 year group (Primary Care were doing over 1 million doses per week at peak)
• Expect COVID vaccines to be available in early January and it is expected  there will be enough doses
• New stand alone training module, compulsory to those administering the vaccine to 5-11 year olds,
  • expected launch date week starting 20^thDec, latest 22^nd Dec.
  • An email will be sent out to vaccination providers when this is online.
  • There are different vials, requires dilution, different storage times, volumes,
  • Ordering window will open soon  

Comment from AGPA

• There is a lot of misinformation in the community
  
  • We need urgent comms and information for parents as many of our consultations now involve chatting about this, particularly addressing concerns of myocarditis and fertility.

Response: They will pass the feedback to comms.  

Comments from Others

• Will State hubs be involved given the remuneration is unchanged and the requirements for childhood vaccines are greater?

Response: There will be some allocation to State hubs and ability to distribute between State hubs and Primary Care Seasonal influenza vaccines recommended by ATAGI prior to the opening of borders

• Is COVID vaccine hesitancy having an effect on other vaccines?

Response: This is being tracked.