Remote communities in East Pilbara to receive Pfizer vaccine

The Pfizer vaccine has touched down in the East Pilbara with eligible locals in remote communities able to receive the jab for the first time. Administration of the Pfizer vaccine commenced in Jigalong, Parnngurr, Punmu and Kunawarritji last week with the help of Royal Flying Doctors Service. It comes as data released by the Federal Government last week revealed WA’s northern outback had the slowest rate of inoculation, with 18.2 per cent of adults having received at least one jab. Just 8.6 per cent of adults in the State’s north were fully vaccinated. Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service Newman chief executive Robby Chibawe said he was happy with the progress of the rural roll out. “It’s an exercise you don’t want to rush and with time we have been able to debunk some hesitancy around the measure so it works to our favour,” he said. “We are not having logistical concerns or issues getting the vaccine to people despite initial concerns. Now we have to wait and see the results.” Mr Chibawe said getting the jab was the “way out” of a pandemic that threatens to disturb some of the nation’s most vulnerable communities. “Our message has been consistent as an organisation and that is there is no other way around COVID-19, there is no other way that we can come out of the pandemic. “In the event that we get a positive case in the dessert that will be catastrophic so we keep honouring and fostering that message. Our hope is that the people need to come forward and get the vaccine. That is the only way out.” He said he looked forward to seeing the outcomes of the Pfizer roll out and thanked everyone involved. Earlier this month State Opposition Leader Mia Davies called for vaccine opportunities and incentives for regional residents attending agricultural shows across WA. She said she urged the Labor Government to make sure all West Australians had access to the increasing number of available vaccines.