Although Pfizer is the recommended vaccine for those aged 40 to 60, people in this age group and younger can opt to receive the AstraZeneca if they are informed of the small risk of complications associated with the vaccine.

But many took to social media on the weekend saying they had been trying to find a GP to administer the AstraZeneca jab and had been refused an appointment.

UFS primary care operations manager Danielle Trezise said their Dana Street vaccination clinic was offering AstraZeneca vaccine to people under 40 with "lots" booking to receive the jab.

"Most of the current people having their first dose of AstraZeneca here are under 40," she said. "There are still some that are over 60 having their first dose but there are quite a number of people under 40 choosing to have AstraZeneca so they can be vaccinated."

UFS advises people under 40 who want the AstraZeneca vaccine to discuss it with their GP so they are aware of the risks and benefits.

While there is a GP at the UFS vaccination clinic, they cannot see everyone who comes in wanting the vaccine.

Ms Trezise said about half of people coming for AstraZeneca vaccinations at the clinic were under 60 years of age and there was plenty of supply of the vaccine.

But the clinic currently receives only 30 doses a day of Pfizer and people must make a booking over the phone to receive it. At the moment first doses are being booked in September.

"When they ring us to book the first dose we book the second dose at the same time for three weeks later so they are filling that spot and will not miss out."

UFS is working with the Commonwealth government to double their supply of Pfizer and open up more appointment times, but it is unknown when that will occur.

The UFS pharmacy at Buninyong is one of the first in the region to offer COVID vaccinations at community pharmacies.

IN OTHER NEWS

From Monday, more than 3900 community pharmacies across Australia who earlier this year were found suitable to join the COVID-19 vaccine rollout will be invited to participate as supply becomes available.

Ms Trezise confirmed people over 60 seeking the AstraZeneca vaccine could make appointments to have their jab at the Buninyong pharmacy from Tuesday.

"Some people might be hesitant to get their vaccine or have trouble coming in to town from Buninyong or wherever but because they've got such a good relationship with their community pharmacy potentially they will book in there."

Bookings must be made by phone with the pharmacy or online.

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