Australians should trust the advice of the experts when deciding on their COVID-19 vaccination, AMA President, Dr Omar Khorshid, said today.
"The AMA has supported the decisions made by independent scientific experts - the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) - to keep Australians safe throughout the global COVID-19 pandemic," Dr Khorshid said.
"The Federal Government has also accepted this advice. While the changed advice about the AstraZeneca vaccine may seem confusing, and further delays to the rollout are frustrating, Australia is in the very fortunate position of being able to watch and learn from the experiences overseas.
"Communicating in this rapidly changing environment has been a challenge for the Government but it is critical for Australia's future that public confidence in the vaccine program is maintained.
"The patient-GP relationship is one of the most trusted and important relationships in every person's life.
"Your GP will give you the best advice about any medicine or vaccine. They will offer you what they believe to be of medical benefit to you and explain any risks and benefits of having or not having the treatment.
"They will ask you if you need any clarification and answer your questions. You can then decide whether you want the treatment.
"This is the same as for any treatment whether it is an antibiotic, surgery or a vaccine.
"GPs are guided by Government advice about AstraZeneca, and the risks for the under-50 cohort - most of whom would not be eligible for the vaccine until later this year anyway.
"The advice around the incredibly rare but serious thrombotic events associated with AZ vaccination has made decision making more difficult for those under 50 who are currently eligible for the vaccine. The AZ vaccine remains very safe and effective, and access to the alternative, preferred Pfizer vaccine is likely to be delayed.
"Our advice for Australians with questions is to make an appointment with their GP for a full discussion about the possible risks and benefits of having the vaccine, or of not having it, taking into account of their own specific circumstances.
"There has been some talk about doctors being concerned about potential litigation from side-effects of any vaccines. Please be assured that all registered doctors are fully covered - your GP is more concerned with your health."
