Kimberley vax rates still low despite new COVID-19 wave

Vaccination rates in the Kimberley remain some of the lowest in the State, despite warnings the new wave of COVID will peak in early December. Some 68 per cent of residents over the age of 16 are fully vaccinated, 15.5 per cent short of the total across WA which stands at 83.5 per cent. The figure is 63.7 per cent in Broome and 54.3 per cent in Wyndham-East Kimberley. The central Kimberley offers even more dismal numbers, with a shocking 36 per cent of Halls Creek residents and 46 per cent of Derby-West Kimberley residents having received three jabs. The proportion of Kimberley’s Aboriginal population to have received three doses stands at 82 per cent. While low, this number is vastly improved from this time last year, when it was under 10 per cent. This is likely credited to an increase in localised approaches, as delivered by the Aboriginal Health Council of WA, which engaged with Aboriginal people on their concerns over the COVID-19 vaccination. And as COVID-19 cases continue to rise — 9065 new WA cases were recorded in the past week — Kimberley residents are once again being urged to get the jab. Broome Shire president Harold Tracey said the shire would continue to follow the State and Federal governments’ health guidlines in respect to the latest COVID-19 wave, but encouraged the public to do their part in softening the blow. “While vaccines don’t protect everyone from catching COVID, they have largely prevented serious illness and the associated strain on our health system,” he said. “I urge anyone who is eligible to have their third or fourth dose to visit their doctor and roll up their sleeves to ensure they continue to be protected.” And as the Christmas season fast approaches, so too does the onslaught of social gatherings whether it be in the workplace or with elderly and high-risk relatives. “Social distancing and mask wearing, while currently not compulsory, are still tools important preventative tools in certain high-risk situations, or when visiting vulnerable people and places such as health facilities and remote communities,” Cr Tracey said. “And, while you are no longer compelled to isolate if you have COVID symptoms, please were a mask in public until they go away.” Vaccinations are available at Broome Respiratory Clinic.