THE Gippsland Region Public Health Unit’s (GRPHU) mobile vaccination bus has retired.
From December 6, 2021 to December 22, 2022, Chitty Chitty Jab Jab visited about 200 locations across Gippsland administering 5479 COVID vaccinations.
The highest total of doses in one day was 164.
Funding for the bus was provided by the Victorian Department of Health and will not continue in 2023.
“Chitty Chitty Jab Jab was a unique initiative developed to complement other outreach services like the state-run vaccination hubs, providing access to vaccinations to as many communities in Gippsland as possible,” explained GRPHU operations director, Annelies Titulaer.
“GRPHU worked closely with community organisations and health services across Gippsland to manage the buses schedule and we appreciate everyone’s involvement to be very responsive to meet demand in what was an ever evolving COVID climate.”
After funding was extended in September, Chitty Chitty Jab Jab visited more towns than ever before to ensure it gave as many people as possible the opportunity to get up to date with their vaccinations.
In addition to COVID vaccinations, the bus also expanded its capacity to offer flu and MPOX vaccinations, while serving as an access point in sharing public health messaging.
“It was not without its challenges along the way and our team was always committed to providing this service in the best way possible,” Ms Titulaer said.
“We really appreciated the community’s patience, understanding and kindness throughout this time.”
COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters can still be accessed via a GP or pharmacy by booking an appointment.
Find a clinic near you at https://covidvaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/booking/
