Australia secures extra Moderna vaccine doses from Europe

Australia has secured an extra million doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccines from countries in the European Union, with supplies to begin arriving in the country as early as next weekend.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said those aged 12 and above will be able to access the Moderna vaccines from pharmacies when they are distributed.

“Some good news today – a family-sized dose of hope for our vaccination program,” he told reporters in Canberra on Sunday.

“I have confirmed today that the Federal Government has secured an additional 1 million the donor doses from the European Union member states.”

Those new doses will be sent to around 3,600 pharmacies across the country with supplies being distributed from 20 September.

Mr Morrison encouraged people aged between 12 and 59 to contact their local pharmacy to enquire about booking an appointment.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, the country’s expert vaccine advisory body, is recommending the Moderna vaccine for those aged between 12 and 59.

Mr Morrison said the additional supply will allow for a ‘doubling’ of Moderna doses through September.

Source: sbs.com.au