By Molly Magennis
Maribyrnong council is calling on young people to get the jab, after figures show those under 39-years-old are lagging behind.
The city of Maribyrnong has struggled to increase its vaccination rates in recent weeks.
As of November 29, 82.1 per cent of residents in the municipality have been double vaccinated, trailing behind surrounding local government areas who are well placed to, or have already exceeded, the 90 per cent target.
Data shows that 20-29 year olds in Footscray and 30-39 year olds in Yarraville are particularly behind in vaccination rates.
As a result, the council is hosting a number of pop-up clinics to urge the younger population to get double vaccinated as we head into the Christmas season.
Pop-up clinics will be held at Phoenix Youth Centre, Footscray, for people between the ages of 12-25 on December 9 and December 16 between 3:30pm and 7pm. A clinic at Footscray Train station will be open on December 9, 10, and 16, 17 from 11am to 7pm.
Yarraville Station car park will also be host to a pop-up clinic on December 10 from 11am to 6pm and December 11 from 8am to 2pm.
Mayor Anthony Tran said he especially encourages young people to get the jab for not only themselves but the elderly or vulnerable people in their lives.
“Our city’s younger population have been through a difficult year, coping with Melbourne’s six lockdowns and other restrictions. However, as we approach the end of the year, there is now much to look forward to on the city’s social calendar,” he said.
“Once our local population in all age groups are fully vaccinated, we can more safely enjoy live concerts, sporting and other social events.”
“If you haven’t had a chance to get your first or second dose of the vaccine, I encourage you to go to a local pop-up vaccination clinic, talk to a healthcare professional, and get your vaccine as soon as possible.”
