Like most doctors, Dr Phil Correy from East Avenue Medical is adamant that vaccination is the key to dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, and he is astounded by the anonymous letters he has received admonishing him for his efforts.
"Vaccinations are the only way out as far as I can see," he said. "It's a no-brainer, and I can't understand why people don't believe it. People are hesitant to believe professionals, but they are happy to accept conspiracy theories.
"There are people I know who have used intravenous drugs, smoked, and drank for years, but they won't take something that an eminent professor says is going to protect society.
"I have had at least five unsigned letters posted to my home saying I am committing crimes against humanity by administering the COVID-19 vaccination, and I'm not the only doctor that has."
East Avenue Medical clinic is one of the few in Glen Innes to offer both AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines. To date, the team has administered more than 2000 vaccines and has fully vaccinated 403 patients. Dr Correy is also an obstetrician and stresses the importance of vaccination for pregnant women.
"Pregnant women need to be vaccinated as they can get more serious COVID symptoms," he said. "It is safe to get vaccinated with Pfizer at any stage of pregnancy or breastfeeding."
NSW Health data shows that in the Glen Innes postcode of 2370, there have been between 6000 and 6999 vaccinations given to the total eligible population of 6348. Between 60 and 69 percent have received the first dose, and between 30 and 39 percent are fully vaccinated. Between 1000 and 2000 vaccinations have been administered to people under 50.
Vanessa Arundale
Everyone has a story to tell and I like to help them do it.
Everyone has a story to tell and I like to help them do it.
