Pasifika residents urged to get vaccinated
OAMARU’S Pacific Island community is being encouraged to get the Covid19 vaccination when a clinic opens next month.
In collaboration with Tumai Ora and Waitaki Migrant Support, the Oamaru Pacific Island Community Group (OPICG) wants residents to book into Oamaru’s upcoming community vaccination clinic.
Open from July 610, the clinic will target people in vaccine rollout group three — those at risk of getting very sick from Covid19.
Though preceding the general population rollout at the end of July, the clinic would be open to all members of the public regardless of grouping.
OPICG general manager Hana Halalele said there were 1000 vaccinations to be administered and she did not want any to go to waste.
‘‘We are aware there is a target group . . . we want to make use of all the vaccinations available,’’ Mrs Halalele said.
Members of the general population were not taking the place of others.
‘‘They won’t miss out. It’s just about the timing and getting booked.’’
The goal was to cover as much of the Waitaki district as possible, she said.
Mrs Halalele was aware some people were hesitant about vaccination, but said it was a matter of duty to inform the public and keep them safe.
The clinic would take place at Oamaru’s St Paul’s Church Hall in 7 Coquet St. A second would be held between August 3 and 8 for the second dose.
Team members from Tumai Ora, Waitaki Migrant Support, and the OPICG would be available to those needing assistance booking.
It is necessary to book ahead. This can be done on Southern Health’s website.