Pilbara still well behind nation in COVID vaccine uptake as data reveals when region will reach target

The Pilbara’s lagging vaccine uptake still remains the lowest in the country with the region on track to only reach 80 per cent double dosed by mid June. The region’s resources industry that pumped $11.3 billion into the State economy to drive WA’s bumper $5.6b surplus currently sits at a double dosed rate of less than 60 per cent. As of January 24, 55.8 per cent of the West Pilbara population over the age of 15 had received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine with 60.7 per cent having one jab. It marked a one per cent jump from the previous week which — if the uptake remains consistent — would have the West Pilbara reach the Government’s 80 per cent target around the middle of June. In the East Pilbara 58.2 per cent of residents had received both jabs while 64.5 had one. Meanwhile the rest of the State continues to push far ahead of the Pilbara with, as of January 27 , 90.2 per cent of the population over 12 double dosed and 32.7 per cent having had their booster. It comes as the WA Police brought three highly regarded police officers out of retirement to assist in a three-week vaccine push in the Pilbara. The maxi vaxi mobile vaccination clinic, a converted police booze bus, travelling across the Pilbara until January 31 has so far delivered more than 700 vaccinations. Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said vaccination remained the best way to protect the community against Omicron. “Western Australia’s approach to COVID-19 has protected the Pilbara community, keeping people safe and industry open to protect local jobs and power the nation through this period,” he said. “The clear message for everyone in the Pilbara is to get vaccinated, including their third doses as soon as you’re eligible. “Vaccination is the best way to protect people against Omicron, which is in the WA community.” The mobile clinic will be based at the Dampier Community Hub on Monday until 4pm.