Novel CoronaVirus Update 21 February 2021
Preparing for our Covid-19 Vaccination – M Kelly 21 Feb 2021
Two Covid-19 vaccines are now being rolled out in Australia. Both are safe. We will all be wise to seek out vaccination at the first opportunity.
If ~80% of adults achieve ~80% immunity through vaccination by Christmas, then 2022 may be more normal.
Vaccines have somewhat lower efficacy in seniors that in younger adults. This is counterbalanced by the vaccines being more effective at preventing severe disease than mild disease. On balance therefore, the scientifically published vaccine efficacy rates (see below) are likely a good guide to the protection that we as senior citizens are likely to receive from one or other of the available vaccines.
Australians over 65 years have been promised access to both vaccines on a case by case basis.
The Pfizer vaccine requires the first jab to be followed by a booster after 3 weeks and achieves ~95% vaccine efficacy within about 4 weeks
In northern Melbourne it will likely only be available at Austin Health, and supplies are quite limited.
The AstraZeneca first jab is to be followed by a booster at least 12 weeks later in order to achieve ~80% vaccine efficacy within about 13 weeks.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)00432-3/fulltext Published:February 19, 2021
It is less suitable for vulnerable individuals who may desire maximum protection within less than 3 months. In part this is why all western European countries other than the UK have disapproved the AstraZeneca vaccine for any individual over 70 years.
On the positive side the AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured in Australia, and will be more widely available at medical practices, and later even at pharmacies. Most of our younger adult relatives will receive this vaccine. Children may not need vaccination.
Click on the link below to obtain a printable pdf document containg this Vaccination information
Preparing for our Covid Vaccination 21 Feb 2021
Click on links below for further information:
How to Obtain Groceries and other supplies safely during pandemic
How to walk for exercise safely during pandemic
Daily Coronavirus Statistics Update- https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/
Victoria DHHS Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398
Website links
Vic
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/novelcoronavirus
Australian Govt
https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov
Latest statistics in Australia
Covidlive – an excellent site for latest Australian Pandemic statistics
Reliable Tradesmen recommended by members:
Roof Tiler, Repairs: Drazen Simic 0415696458 – By Noel
Renovations : Michael Jowett (Jowcon) 0433819646 – Bannisters
Electrician: Ian Reid 0408434707 – By Kevin L
Electrician: Travis Pearson 0411697111 – By Judi
Plumber: Geoff Bartlett 0401082707 – By Judi
Tree & Stumps: Nick Stephens 0418562115 – By Noel P
House Clean Maid to Clean 8391 7026 or SMS 0481 071 251 – By Pam
TV Services Craig Anderson 0487805555 – By Ken
Car Panel Repairs Peter Carden 0415300749 – By Brian
Computers Promedia Tek 03 94993541 (Ivanhoe) – By Member
Windows PLus ECO Green (Kevin McCann) 0400538622 – by Ken E
USEFUL WEBSITE LINKS (click the red text to view site)
PROBUS
SENIORS SUPPORT
- Seniors Rights Victoria
- Seniors Victoria
- Victorian Council of the Aged (COTA)
- Carers Victoria
- Manningham Ageing well support
- Office of the Public Advocate Victoria
- Association of Independent Retirees
- Australian Government MyAgedCare
- Centrelink
HEALTH LINKS
(Left click on the red text to open the pertinent website )