The fine line between encouraging booster shot uptake and mandate ‘backlash’

An expert in vaccine uptake admits some mandates are “slight overkill” but is in no doubt Victorians should get their COVID-19 booster shot to protect themselves and the community.

Julie Leask is a professor in public health at Sydney University and told Neil Mitchell it was a fine line between encouraging people to get vaccinated and mandating it.

It comes amid concern about uptake of a third dose, with 38.1 per cent of eligible Victorians over 18 having had a third shot.

There is talk government will soon mandate a third shot to be considered “fully vaccinated” and able to participate in society.

“I’ve always felt some of the mandates are slight overkill and you do risk this backlash you see if you kind of shove people too much before you’ve given them the chance to get to the clinic, or consider it, or work out when is the right time for them,” Julie Leask told Neil Mitchell.

But she said the benefits of getting a third shot were indisputable.

Press PLAY below to hear her insights

Picture: Getty iStock