COVID Frequently Asked Questions
Are the COVID-19 vaccines safe?
All vaccines in Australia are tested to make sure they are safe. COVID-19 vaccines have been through a lot of testing to help protect us all quickly from the virus. They have been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This organisation approves all vaccines and medicines before they can be used in Australia. The TGA looked at all the test results from COVID-19 vaccine trials throughout the world to make sure they are safe. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation also provided advice to health authorities on the use of the COVID-19 vaccines. And all organisations continue to monitor things closely.
What will happen when we get vaccinated for COVID-19?
When we get the COVID-19 vaccine, our immune system responds so that it is ready to protect us if we come into contact with COVID-19. The
vaccine might not stop us getting COVID-19, but it helps stop us from getting really sick if we do. It works in the same way as the flu vaccine.
After we have the COVID-19 vaccination, we might feel some side effects. This might include aches and pains and a slight fever or tiredness. But the benefits of getting vaccinated far outweigh the risk of any rare side effects. If we are concerned about any side effects, we should talk to our doctor. The COVID-19 vaccination needs two doses, which means we need to go to two appointments. Our doctor or health clinic will tell us when to get our second dose.
It’s okay to have the COVID-19 vaccine before or after our flu vaccine. They just need to be seven days apart.
How do we find out more information about COVID-19 vaccination?
We can talk to our GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or Aboriginal Health Worker about what is best to help protect us. They can provide information
about the COVID-19 vaccines, how to book our vaccination and what to expect. You can also find more information on nsw.gov.au.
Yarn Up
If you have any questions about COVID-19 vaccination, tune into a ‘Yarn Up’ session to get the answers from NSW Health and Aboriginal medical professionals. The Centre for Aboriginal Health hosted the first Yarn Up video event about COVID-19 vaccination on Thursday 29 July which was featured on the NSW Health Facebook page. This is an opportunity for Aboriginal community members across New South Wales to ask any questions about COVID-19 vaccination. If you have any questions, you can send them in to: MOH-CAH-COVID19@health.nsw.gov.au.
