Twilight pop-ups to boost Hume City vaccination access

Hume residents will have more access to walk-in COVID-19 vaccine appointments, including evening timeslots, across this week.

Hume City Council has partnered with DPV Health to deliver the additional pop-up vaccination sites in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Kalkallo in response to the City's current vaccination rates.

Hume City went from the least vaccinated City in the state to one of the most vaccinated in Australia last year when it came to the initial first two doses for 18 years and over. However, it currently has some of the lowest uptakes of both the third dose (16+) and children's (5-11) vaccinations in Victoria.

The pop-up sites will provide increased vaccine access to the Hume community, meaning residents can attend a clinic at a time that suits them and without booking in for an appointment. A dedicated team of bi-cultural officers are located at all pop-up sites to provide translations and support to Hume's diverse community.

Currently, 183,745 of Hume's population aged 16 years and over is eligible for a booster shot, while 25,600 of Hume's population aged 5 to 11 years is eligible for their first two doses.

While two doses can minimise your risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19, topping the two with an additional booster can significantly reduce the chances of contracting the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

For those who have contracted COVID-19 recently, it is the recommendation from the Chief Health Officer that you receive your third or paediatric dose as soon as you have recovered from COVID-19. Once all symptoms have ceased, please book in or visit one of the walk-up clinics across Hume to receive your next vaccination. If you have any questions concerning your health, it is recommended that you speak with your family General Practitioner.

Hume City Council Mayor, Councillor Carly Moore said:

"The fact that we became one of the most vaccinated cities in Australia last year confirms that our residents know what it takes to protect themselves and their community. I have no doubt that our community's vaccination rates will be boosted with easier access.

"Council has partnered with DPV Health to run additional pop-up vaccination sites, including a variety of twilight sessions with extended opening hours to make it easier for you to walk-in and get your booster or for your children to receive their first dose.

"Along with staying healthy, not catching COVID-19 means you won't be forced to miss out on work, school or seeing loved ones if you're forced to isolate.

"The COVID-19 vaccine is our ticket to an open and thriving Hume, where we can work, learn and play."

Additional pop-up sites running this week: