The response to the Victorian Government aged and disability care worker COVID-19 vaccination blitz was encouraging to see. Our vaccination centre teams at Sandown Racecourse and Cranbourne Turf Club worked quickly and safely to ensure the State’s essential workforce could be protected from COVID-19 and protect the vulnerable individuals in their care. Angela Wang, Facility Manager at our Eastwood Hostel aged care residence, has received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. We took time to discuss the process and what vaccination means to her and her work with residential aged care recipients.
Thinking back, what made you decide to be vaccinated against COVID-19?
I was anxious not to get infected, but most importantly, I wanted to protect myself and others.
What type of information did you rely on to decide to be vaccinated?
I searched for information about the vaccine from authentic places.
What was your experience like during the COVID-19 vaccination process?
I went to the vaccination clinic, and the process went smoothly. The vaccination nurse there was very organised and helpful.
How did you feel, physically or emotionally, as you progressed through the process, and how do you feel now?
I felt a bit nervous whilst having the first dose of COVID-19 injection. But I watched myself for any changes after vaccination and through the process. But I didn’t have any reaction from the vaccination except a sore arm. Generally, I feel good. Now, I’m quite reassured and confident post the immunisation.
What does getting protected against COVID-19 represent to you?
Vaccination is not only to protect ourselves from COVID-19 infection, but it protects the community too, so I felt like the fight against COVID-19 is not anyone else’s duty it’s my duty towards the community. I can say it creates a safer environment, safer families and a safer community.
What types of questions have your family, friends and colleagues asked you about COVID-19 vaccination?
I heard a lot of, ‘How are you feeling after vaccination?’ ‘Did you get sick?’ My answer is everyone’s body is different, and reactions will vary to vaccination. And yes, for me, it hurt a bit on my arm for a few days. Some people feel a bit sick after getting the injection, but some don’t, so it varies from person to person. That’s normal and not something to be frightened of.
What are you most looking forward to doing once the community can return to a more familiar way of life?
Hopefully our people, and our country can recover well from this past year of COVID-19. I’m looking forward to trying to be as socially normal as I can. To be what we are supposed to be before the restrictions or lockdowns.
Thank you, Angela, for sharing your insights. It’s pleasing to see the uptake of vaccination from Monash Health employees. If you haven’t been vaccinated, it’s not too late. We can accommodate you at our hospital sites; find out more here.
Approved by Adjunct Professor Katrina Nankervis, Chief Nursing & Midwifery Officer and Executive Director, Residential Care & Support Services