South Australians can continue to roll up their sleeves for the COVID-19 vaccine at the Wayville Showground clinic during this year's iconic Royal Adelaide Show.
Premier Steven Marshall confirmed that the Wayville mass vaccination clinic will continue to operate throughout the Royal Adelaide Show period to provide a convenient way for South Australians to access the vaccine.
"Giving all South Australians access to the COVID-19 vaccine is how we are keeping our state safe and strong in response to the pandemic," said Premier Marshall.
"The Wayville mass vaccination clinic has proven to be a great success. It is now delivering more than 1,000 doses a day and it is fantastic news that the clinic will be able to maintain its momentum during this year's Royal Adelaide Show.
"We continue to deliver the most vaccinations per capita of any mainland state, and we thank all South Australians who have stepped forward and rolled up their sleeve to get vaccinated."
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the Wayville clinic currently offers vaccines by appointment only through the SA Health website, however, offering walk-in appointments during the Royal Show period is being considered.
"Giving patrons of this iconic South Australian event the opportunity to have their COVID-19 vaccine when they are already on site and enjoying the many attractions the Royal Adelaide Show is being considered as a measure to help people access the vaccine," said Minister Wade.
"Our mass vaccination clinics are seeing strong numbers with the Wayville clinic delivering more than 16,000 doses since it opened less than four weeks ago, and the Noarlunga clinic is scaling up steadily since it's opening on Tuesday.
"Our rollout is set to increase further again with the opening of the Elizabeth mass clinic on Monday 31 May.
"While the majority of South Australians will receive their vaccination through their GP, our mass vaccination clinics are playing an important role in supporting our rollout to give every South Australian access to the vaccine."
Chief Public Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spurrier, said South Australians can feel confident that they can access the vaccine at a mass vaccination clinic in their area.
"Providing as many avenues for eligible South Australians to access the COVID-19 vaccine is an important way we can support the rollout and ensure everyone can roll up their sleeve when it's their turn," Professor Spurrier said.
"The COVID-19 vaccine is voluntary, but highly recommended, because we know that vaccination is highly effective at preventing serious illness and death.
"The COVID-19 remains a threat to all of us, with increasing rates in many countries, even in some who showed initial good control, so we must be vigilant and play our part in stopping the spread of the virus."
Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society Chief Executive John Rothwell said it is sensible to support the momentum of the vaccination rollout and the Royal Show will adjust its presentation to accommodate the continuation of the vaccination hub at the Adelaide Showground.
COVID-19 vaccination bookings for clinics across the state are available through the SA Health website.
