First Tasmanian receives the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine

Tasmanian GPs will receive vaccine stocks on March 22, with an AstraZeneca vaccination clinic to be opened at the Mersey Community Hospital on March 19 for North-West health staff.

Up to 400 members of the Tasmanian health sector are expected to receive the vaccine this week, joining more than 1100 frontline health workers who will be vaccinated with the Pfizer vaccination that has been rolling out for three weeks.

Dr Veitch was joined by a united group of health professionals ready and willing to roll up their sleeves to protect themselves, their loved ones and the community.

Dr Veitch said he was grateful to be the first person in Tasmania to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine.

"I understand that some Tasmanians may have some hesitation about being vaccinated," he said.

"If you do have any concerns, please get your facts from reliable sources, such as the Tasmanian and Australian Government health websites, or your GP.

"My message to all Tasmanians is that these vaccines have been rigorously tested for safety, are effective tools in our response to the pandemic, and will assist Tasmania and Australia in our path back towards normality."

Tasmanian Vaccination Operations Centre and Health deputy secretary Dale Webster said being vaccinated was a crucial tool in the fight against COVID-19.

"Being vaccinated will save lives," Mr Webster said.

"There are now two vaccines, Pfizer and AstraZeneca, which have been through the rigorous approvals process in Australia.

"They are both safe and equally effective."

Tasmania has received 6720 doses of the vaccine earlier than planned.

This equates to 840 vials, each of which will provide up to eight doses.

Tasmanians in Phase 1b will be provided with more details later in the week regarding appointments for vaccinations at state-run clinics and GP clinics.

These clinics will start late in March.