● Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are 60% more likely to die from COVID-19 than non Indigenous people.1
● Older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are 25% less likely to access antivirals compared to the national average.2
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA 12 DECEMBER 2024: A new health awareness campaign developed with, and for, First Nations people is working to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities nationwide can better access COVID-19 treatments.
The campaign, launched by Pfizer Australia in close consultation with Healthcare Professionals working in Aboriginal Health and community health leaders, comes at a critical time as COVID-19 continues to impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities more severely than the general population.
Professor Kelvin Kong, a proud Worimi man and one of Australia's leading Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeons, has joined forces with local Aboriginal Health Workers to share vital information about antiviral treatments in ways that resonate with community values and experiences.
"This campaign is about protecting our mob and making sure our people know there are medicines that can help if COVID-19 hits," Professor Kong said.
"We have previously seen a rise in COVID-19 cases at this time of year. Help is possible. It is crucial that our communities understand these treatments need to be taken early, being proactive, which means getting tested as soon as symptoms appear and having a yarn with your healthcare worker about your options."
The campaign materials have been shaped by extensive consultation with a steering committee of First Nations health advisors, ensuring messages are culturally appropriate and address the real concerns of community members about COVID-19 treatments.
Michael West, a proud Gamilaroi man, respected Artist, Aboriginal Educator, founder of Guwaali, and Pfizer Reconciliation Action Plan Advisor, emphasised the importance of community-led health initiatives: "Our people know what works for our communities. This campaign speaks to mob in our way, acknowledging our understanding of health and wellbeing while providing practical information about these important medicines."
The initiative addresses specific challenges First Nations communities face, including living away from major health services; higher rates of health conditions that can make COVID-19 more serious; understanding how and when to access antiviral treatments; and making sure treatment information reaches Elders and those most at risk.
Resources include videos, community posters, and materials for HCPs working in Aboriginal Health to share with their communities. All materials have been developed to emphasise the importance of protecting family and community, incorporating cultural perspectives on health and healing.
The campaign will be rolled out in December 2024 through Aboriginal Medical Services, Indigenous media channels, and community networks across urban, regional and remote areas nationwide.
References 1. Australian Bureau of Statistics, COVID-19 Mortality in Australia: Deaths registered until 31 January 2024, released 27/2/2024 [Accessed December 2024].
2. Breadon, P. and Chan. I. (2023). How we analysed COVID antiviral uptake. Grattan Institute. [Accessed December 2024].
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