As the new school year fast approaches the Gutwein Government should be fast-tracking COVID vaccinations for immunocompromised children based on the advice of ATAGI and in line with other jurisdictions.
Shadow Health Minister Anita Dow said earlier this month ATAGI recommended the interval between the first and second dose could be shortened to a minimum of 3 weeks for children aged five to 11 years from higher risk groups such as those with medical risk factors for severe illness.
"Why is Tasmania once again the last jurisdiction to act?" Ms Dow said.
"The Liberal Government was also the last to act on a shorter interval period for booster shots while other states acted quickly.
"Other states have already introduced the three week interval and it's crucial that the Gutwein Government should be doing everything possible to ensure that all children are given protection with the start of the school year just 12 days away.
"Tasmania's first dose vaccination rate among five to 11 year olds is only 44 per cent and it is even lower in regions like the North West where the rate is as low as 32 per cent.
"The fact is we are running out of time before children return to school and Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff needs to be pulling out all stops to ensure children have the opportunity to be vaccinated.
"Parents need better information from the government and they need more action.
"Community pharmacists should be involved particularly in rural and regional areas and giving them the ability to administer the vaccine would lift vaccination rates.
"The start of the school year is almost upon families and Mr Rockliff should be working with and supporting parents to ensure all Tasmanian children no matter where they live have access to vaccinations."
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Health Minister
