Era Health will be providing Covid – 19 vaccinations from Monday, 12 April 2021 in Phase 1B Covid–19 Vaccine Rollout.
Phase 1B Covid–19 Vaccine Rollout
The vaccine available is that provided by AstraZeneca and requires two doses administered 12 weeks apart.
In Phase 1B Covid–19 Vaccine Rollout and restrictions
the Federal Government is restricting those eligible for the vaccine at the current time. Before making an appointment, please ensure that you are eligible for the vaccine. To determine your eligibility, please visit Vaccines Eligibility Checker (healthdirect.gov.au)).
Covid–19 Vaccine at Era Health
Appointments for vaccination only may be made either by forwarding an email to reception (info@erahealth.com.au) or by booking online here. Please do not contact the clinic by telephone to make an appointment for the vaccination.
Please note: People who are not eligible for Medicare may still receive a free COVID-19 vaccination.
Please continue to visit our website for regular updates. We will also send SMS messages to our patients as the vaccine becomes available for their specific group. This will be followed by an email that provides more information and consent forms.
We are pleased to advise that Era Health has received notification from the Federal Government that we have been approved to participate in the Australian Covid – 19 vaccination rollout program. Covid 19 Vaccine – Coming Soon – Era Health for all our patients.
Vaccination For Covid 19
This means that you will be able to receive your initial and second vaccination within our clinic.
The vaccination available is that provided by AstraZeneca. This vaccination requires two doses administered 12 weeks apart.
Covid 19 Vaccination Coming to Era Health
Priority Population Groups for COVID-19 vaccination program
Under Phase 1B of the COVID-19 vaccination program, priority population groups include:
people 70 years of age or older;
other health care workers;
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 55 years or older;
people with an underlying medical condition , including people with a disability; and
critical and high risk workers.
It is a further requirement that an eligible patient be a person aged 18 years or older who is eligible for Medicare.
Please note: People who are not eligible for Medicare may still receive a free COVID-19 vaccination service. They are advised to consult the Victorian Health Department for more information.
Phase 1B Covid –19 Vaccine Rollout
Eligibility for the free COVID-19 vaccines is as follows:
all Medicare-eligible Australians; and
all visa-holders, excluding visa sub-classes 771 (Transit), 600 (Tourist Stream), 651 (eVisitor) and 601 (Electronic Travel Authority).
Covid 19 Vaccine – Coming Soon – Era Health
Please continue to visit our website for regular updates. We will also send SMS messages to our patients as the vaccine becomes available for their specific group. This will be followed by an email that provides more information and consent forms.
At this time of the year, when Melbourne starts getting cooler, and we start seeing the first signs of the flu, we make the same question that we ask every year, should I get the Flu Vaccination in 2021?
Well, the Influenza season is here again in Melbourne, and in this article, I will be covering the most common question patients ask regarding the flu. What is Influenza, how to prevent it or which are the risk associated with the virus?
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton has stressed the importance for all Victorians to get a flu vaccine ahead of the coming influenza season.
Coronavirus (COVID-19)and The Flu Vaccination
Helping to stop the spread
According to the Department of Health, The flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, but if anyone becomes ill with both influenza and COVID-19, it can be very serious (www.health.gov.au
Q: What is influenza (flu) and how can be transmitted?
Influenza is a viral infection, produced by influenza virus types A, B or C. The virus is spread by virus-containing aerosols produced by coughing, sneezing or by direct contact with respiratory secretions.
Melbourne CBD and the symptoms of influenza 2019
Q: What are the symptoms of influenza?
People with influenza may experience the following symptoms:
People with influenza may experience
fever (or feeling feverish/having chills)
cough
sore throat
fatigue
body aches and pains
headaches
runny nose
sneezing, and chills
Although some adults and Children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
Q: How long does someone with the flu stay contagious?
The period between infection and onset of symptoms (incubation period) for influenza is 1- 3 days. A person with influenza may be contagious 24 hours before symptoms begin and continue to be infectious for a week after the onset of symptoms.
Q: Why the Flu is considered in Melbourne a serious infection?
Risk of not getting Flu Vaccination in 2019 Melbourne
Infected persons may become unwell for up to a week. Most patients take up to 2 weeks to recover from influenza, however, it can cause complications or even death. Some of the complications can include pneumonia, bronchitis, croup and ear infections.
Q: What are some common side effects from the flu Vaccinations in 2019?
Common side effects include soreness, redness, pain and swelling at the injection site, drowsiness, tiredness, muscle aches, and fever. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days, usually without any treatment. You should contact your healthcare professional if you are concerned about any symptoms you experience or if you have a persistent high temperature. If you have any allergies or are concerned about the potential side effects of the flu vaccine please discuss this with your healthcare professional.
Why should you get the Flu Vaccination in 2019 in Melbourne CBD
Q: Can you still get the flu after a flu shot?
Influenza vaccines will not give you the flu as the vaccines available in Australia do not contain ‘live’ virus. After vaccination, the person will develop antibody levels that are likely to protect them against the strains of virus represented in the vaccine.
Melbourne CBD and the Flu. Who can Get it?
Q: Who can get influenza?
People of all ages are susceptible to the flu, even those who are young and healthy. It is spread easily and can sweep through schools, nursing homes, businesses or towns.
Melbourne CBD Flu Vaccination 2020. Don’t wait to be sick
Q. Why is influenza vaccine given annually?
There are two main reasons for getting a yearly flu vaccine:
Flu viruses are frequently changing and vaccines may be updated from one season to the next to protect against the most recent and common circulating strains.
A person’s immune protection from influenza vaccination declines over time and annual vaccination is recommended.
Q. When is the best time to get vaccinated for the flu in 2020?
Vaccination is best undertaken in autumn, (March-May) in anticipation of Australia’s peak flu season which is usually between June and September. If you want to book you Flu vaccination 2020 in Melbourne, please call 03 9944 6200 or visit Era Health Doctor Melbourne CBD for an online booking
Q. Does flu vaccine work right away?
No. Protection is usually achieved within 10 to 14 days of vaccination and there is evidence of increased immunity within a few days.
Melbourne Flu vaccinations 2020 and Kids
Q: What age can a child have the flu vaccine?
Children can be vaccinated from the age of 6 months. Please contact your healthcare professional for further information.
Conclusion:
Get your 2021 flu shot!
The only reason to not have the Flu vaccination is if your child is under 6 months or for someone that has, life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine. Every other reason has been thoroughly discredited. Of course, the flu vaccine is not perfect but has extremely good benefits. Some people think that they don’t need it because they are healthy and in a great form but it is important to get the Flu shot to help protect others in your community who are more vulnerable. If you catch the flu, you would be exposing other people or your friends new baby before you even realize you are sick.
The best way to prevent influenza is to get in the habit of getting vaccinated every year. It is also important to protect yourself, your family and your co-workers with these simple steps to help stop the spread of germs.
Avoid close contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, avoid close contact with others to protect them from getting sick too.
Stay home when you are sick
If possible, stay home from work, school, daycare, and errands when you are sick. You will help to prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose
with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and put it in a rubbish bin. If you don’t have a tissue, cover your mouth and nose as best you can.
Wash your hands often
How To Wash Your Hands to Avoid Influenza 2021 Melbourne
Hand Washing Instructions
Wash hands with soap and warm running water for at least 15 – 20 seconds.
Be sure to wash all parts of your hands including under your nails, around cuticles, palms, in between fingers, the back of your hands and wrists.
Rinse hands thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
Turn off the tap with a paper towel.
Dry hands thoroughly with a clean paper towel.
Use the paper towel when opening the door to exit.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Sickness is often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
Other ways to stay healthy during this influenza season and all year round:
Book your Flu Vaccination now at Era Health Doctor Melbourne CBD!
We are offering FLUQUADRI vaccines for extra coverage for this season. The Vaccinations will be available soon and we are taking bookings on (03) 9944 6200 or you can visit our www.erahealth.com.au
For Medicare card holders, consultations are Bulk Billed with only the cost of the vaccination required to be paid.
Avoiding doctors or allied health during the current lockdown?
A significant amount of caution, and in some cases fear, has been created within the community in relation to the current pandemic. This has resulted in some patients not consulting with their health practitioner in a timely fashion resulting in adverse health outcomes. Please remember:
Era Health remains open for both telehealth and face-to-face consultations;
Under the lockdown conditions, you are permitted to travel beyond the 5 km radius of your home to attend a medical consultation (if Victoria Police stop you, you only need to advise them that you are attending the clinic and that they are able to confirm this either by contacting the clinic or seeing your appointment details on the SMS forwarded to you by the clinic);
Should you attend the clinic, you are at even less risk of contracting the COVID virus than you are by visiting your supermarket; and
Don’t let your medical conditions deteriorate.
Please note: Should you have symptoms of COVID – 19 (i.e. fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose and loss of sense of smell or taste), DO NOT attend to any clinic or work but DO follow the advice of the Department of Health and Human Services and get tested (https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/getting-tested)
Please stay safe and get in touch with us if you need some guidance or assistance.
If you were struggling during this pandemic, you might feel that the new restrictions may flare feelings of anxiety, distress, fear, and isolation. While this is certainly understandable, and relatable by many fellow Victorians, please know that you are not alone, and health practitioners are here to help you.
If you are feeling down, depressed, anxious, angry or fearful, it is crucial to seek help and discuss your concerns with your doctor, a friend or a family member. It is in hard times that we must come together and support each other so that we can come out strong on the other side.
Many people are feeling vulnerable, worried, or angry with the latest restrictions imposed in Metropolitan Melbourne. While we cannot change these measures, we can try to manage and regulate our emotions and attitude for the coming six weeks.
In the hope to provide some assistance, the following tips may help to minimise a flare on anxiety levels that are affecting your Mental health in COVID-19:
Welcome to week four of the Victorian Covid lockdown! Had hoped to be able to say that we are in the last half of this state and on the way to an easing of restrictions – but this may not be the case.
So, are you tired of those walls, not socialising, perhaps feeling down, not working efficiently, Covid-fatigued? Fed up with your family or co-residents?
How hard is this new Lockdown in Melbourne?
Many of us may feel that life could be a bit better.
There are many articles on how to manage on the Internet but here are a few tips that may help.
Maintain regular communication between friends and family using the phone or the Internet.
Maintain a routine by getting up at your normal time, showering and dressing and attending to work and other activities.
Schedule your daily work into blocks of time setting yourself tasks for completion within those time blocks. Adhere to them with suitable breaks between for a refreshment break and/or a chat.
Eat carefully and drink wisely avoiding an excess of both.
Exercise is very important even if it is just walking. Try and do about 40 minutes a day, preferably outside.
Limit the amount of time spent listening to or watching broadcasts about COVID. They may increase your anxiety, anger and depression.
If you notice a change in your behaviour (becoming anxious, angry or depressed), seek help. Remember, we are available to help you and all that is required is a phone call or email.
Stay safe and follow the official advice on remaining safe with COVID.
Wear a mask. If you have a medical reason preventing you from wearing a mask, we can provide you with the necessary medical certificate. Just call us.
Facemasks/face coverings have now become compulsory in the Melbourne Metropolitan area and Mitchell shire.
For those wearing disposable facemasks (you are also permitted to use cloth masks and scarves), they must be put on, worn and removed safely.
We have noted many people are not wearing their facemasks properly!
Here are a few tips on how to put on, wear and remove a facemask effectively:
1- before touching a facemask, sanitise your hands (either washes your hands with soap and warm water or with a hand-wash containing between 70 – 95% ethanol);
2- holding the facemask only by the ties/ear loops, with the coloured side facing away from you and with the metal strip uppermost, position the top part of the mask containing the metallic strip over your nose, and secure the upper ties/ear loops (if ties, secure the upper ties above your ears);
3- centre the mask and then squeeze the metallic section so that it fits snugly over your nose;
4- holding the white rim of the lower part of the facemask, gently pull it down over your chin so that the mask fits snugly;
5- if your mask has ties, secure the lower ties beneath your ears;
6- change your facemask every four (4) hours or should it become moist;
7- DO NOT TOUCH the mask once you have it on (if you need to touch your mask, sanitise your hands first);
8- if you wear glasses, you may experience initial fogging of your glasses;
9- and, without touching the mask other than by the ties/loops, place it in a bin;
10- after removing your mask, sanitise your hands.
11- remember, used facemasks are potentially infectious.
It’s been a stressful time all around since coronavirus (COVID-19) arrived. COVID 19 brought a lot of uncertainty into our lives.
Some potential mental health impacts could affect all of us. Here are some of the problems.
• increased anxiety, a fear for our health.
• psychological distress
• social isolation
• Momentary interruption of our work or study
• Lack of a daily routine and functioning.
If you are feeling stress, anxiety, or any other mental health concern, below are some practices to help your Mental health to cope with COVID-19 – Tips and advice.
1. It is essential to maintain a daily routine.
2. Connect with family and friends
3. Practise exercises and try to eat healthy foods.
4. Limit the use of alcohol.
5. Find activities that can relax you. Meditation could be a great help
6. Avoid the 24 hours news that we are being exposed as well as content on Social Media
Below are some services for you to seek support if you need.
You can book an appointment to see one of our Doctor or Psychologist at Era Health.
Era Health, we offer both face-to-face consultations as well as Telehealth services.
For appointments:
Telehealth appointments in Melbourne: Your Next Doctors Appointment Could Be Right from The Comfort Of Your Home
Era Health Doctor Melbourne CBD is now offering bulk-billed TeleHealth consultations for services such as referrals to a specialist, discussing your results with your Doctor, or for any Medical Certificates.
All these types of appointments can be done from the convenience of your home or your office.
Citas de telesalud en Melbourne: su próxima cita con el médico podría ser desde la comodidad de su hogar
Era Health Doctor Melbourne CBD ahora ofrece consultas TeleHealthbulk-billed para servicios como referencias a un especialista, discutir sus resultados con su médico o para cualquier certificado médico.
Todos estos tipos de citas se pueden hacer desde la comodidad de su hogar u oficina.
Puede reservar citas de telesalud en Melbourne en nuestro sitio web utilizando el botón “Reservar en línea de telesalud”, o puede llamar a la clínica para organizarlo.
Para una cita de telesalud, recibirá una llamada alrededor de la hora de su cita.
Vaya en línea (https://www.erahealth.com.au/)
Envíe un correo electrónico a la clínica (info@erahealth.com.au)
Llamar a la clínica (9944 6200)
Horario de la clínica: 9.00 a.m. a 5.00 p.m. de lunes a viernes (excepto festivos)
