The Government is declaring October 16 as a "National Day of Action" for Covid-19 vaccination, in a bid to reach those who haven't yet got their jabs.
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said with over half the eligible population now fully vaccinated, and more than 80 per cent with at least one dose, "we've all got to do our bit to reach the remaining 20 per cent".
“We’ve got a plan and to make it work we’re asking everyone to contribute to a big, nationwide push for vaccination. This will culminate in a National Day of Action for vaccination on Saturday 16 October,” Hipkins said.
“On that day, we will have vaccine clinics open throughout Aotearoa all day and into the evening.
"A bit like Election Day, we will be asking all our political and civic leaders to contribute to a big collective effort to turn people out.”
Hipkins is also encouraging those who have only got their first dose of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine to come forward.
“We must leave no stone unturned. No one should be left behind because they haven’t had the support they need to make an informed choice to be vaccinated," he said.
He encouraged those who had already gotten their jabs to talk to those who hadn't yet.
The Covid-19 Response Minister says “it has never been more urgent” that people get vaccinated. (Source: Other)
“We need you to be talking to them about the reasons you’ve been vaccinated, we need you to make sure they are getting reliable, honest information about the vaccine. And we need you to help us to get the unvaccinated vaccinated.
“We are asking our business community, our media, and our community groups to play a role too. Those that want to offer incentives to the unvaccinated to get them in the door are encouraged to do so," he said.
Hipkins said it because it was "unlikely" that Covid-19 cases in the community would go back to zero, “it has never been more urgent” to get vaccinated.
“We can be one of the most highly-vaccinated countries in the world. To get there, we need a big collective effort."
The Government is also putting in place a dedicated team to help people with disabilities get vaccinated.
It follows criticism from disability advocates that the community was being let down by the vaccine rollout because it wasn't accessible.
“A 30-strong team has been tasked with answering calls and questions, assisting disabled people and their carers to get the information and support they need," Hipkins said.
"It will not only help increase vaccination rates among this group, but keep them and their whānau safer.”
Steps are also being taken to make sure vaccination centres are accessible. These include making sure sites have mobility assistance, sign language interpreters, transport options, and other bespoke solutions.
To speak with a support specialist from the dedicated team, people can call 0800 28 29 26 for free from 8am–8pm Monday to Friday and push 2.
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