Residents urged to receive COVID-19 jab, as GV Health sees ‘record number’ of vaccinations

It's a surge that has been witnessed Victoria-wide, with almost 16,000 people receiving the coronavirus vaccine jab on Tuesday — a record in the state.

GV Health COVID-19 response executive Alicia Cunningham said "large numbers" also booked appointments and presented for the jab at the Shepparton hub on Wednesday.

Ms Cunningham encouraged people to come forward for the vaccine, despite possible wait times as demand rises.

“Our experienced staff will step you through the process, and while the clinic is busy, the demand is being managed,” she said.

“We have the capacity and the vaccine available so we encourage all eligible members of our community to be vaccinated.

“When you get vaccinated, you are protecting yourself and helping to protect the whole community from the transmission and spread of coronavirus.”

The immunisation process takes about 45 minutes — including a 15-minute observation period post-vaccination.

But Ms Cunningham asked people to allow at least 60 minutes for the appointment.

“Our clinics continue to have good flow,” she said.

“There is parking and comfortable waiting areas available.”

Since Wednesday, March 10, GV Health has administered more than 10,000 COVID-19 vaccinations across the Goulburn Valley.

The Federal Government announced Wednesday afternoon it would send an additional 40,000 vaccines to Victoria this week to address the new outbreak.

Another 90,000 doses will follow in the next six weeks, with the government pledging it will roll out vaccines to the remaining 29 aged care facilities yet to receive the jab.

To book a jab at the McIntosh Centre, call 1800 675 398 and select option 1 - 1 - 1.