This month there were several important COVID-19 announcements.
Read about each of these announcements, key messages and Q&As below.
You can also find more information and resources on the Ministry of Health website here.
Third Primary Dose and Booster Vaccines
The COVID-19 Technical Advisory Group has recommended that individuals aged 12 and older with sever immunocompromise can receive a third primary dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
Updated Policy Statement:
My COVID Record
On Tuesday 5 October 2021, the Ministry of Health announced the development of digital certificates and scannable QR codes, which will be used to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination both in New Zealand and overseas.
This week, the Ministry of Health will launch the website My COVID Record. This website will provide a platform for everyone in New Zealand to access their COVID-19 vaccination records and COVID-19 test results.
Changes in gap between COVID-19 vaccine doses
In response to the ongoing Delta outbreak the Ministry of Health is advising New Zealanders to consider a shorter gap between doses of the Pfizer vaccine than the current standard of six weeks.
Reducing the gap between doses to three weeks or over means more people can be fully vaccinated sooner, increasing our community immunity.
The two doses of the Pfizer vaccine must be given at least three weeks apart.
New bookings made through Bookmyvaccine.nz and via the COVID Vaccine Healthline 0800 28 29 26 default back to three-weeks between first and second doses.
If you already have vaccinations booked around six weeks apart, you can keep your second appointment as it is, or choose to change it. Either way the important thing is that you get two doses of the vaccine to be fully vaccinated.
Disability Support
Minister Hipkins announced a new initiative to help disabled people access vaccinations.
A 30-strong team has been established as part of the COVID Vaccination Healthline to support disabled people to get their COVID-19 vaccines.
The support can be accessed by calling the COVID Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26 for free 8 am – 8 pm Monday to Friday and push ‘2’.
Disabled people, and their carers, can receive tailored advice and support for booking their vaccination appointments, including assistance with coordinating transport to and from the vaccination site and arranging the necessary support/accommodations during the appointment.