MPs may get virus jabs to boost confidence
Federal politicians could receive a coronavirus vaccine to shore up public confidence in its safety once the medicines regulator approves one.
Health Minister Greg Hunt has discussed the issue with his opposite number, Labor's Chris Bowen.
"None of us want to be jumping the queue, we're quite acutely aware of that. But nor do we want to show any lack of confidence," Mr Hunt told reporters in Canberra.
He said a group of MPs and senators from all side of politics could be put forward on a voluntary basis as a demonstration of the vaccine's safety.
"I would be very happy to take any vaccine that the medical regulators deemed safe for Australia," Mr Hunt said.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he was keen to see federal parliament function normally.
"Obviously immunisations can assist that but all through this we have been very disciplined in hearing the medical advice, listening to it very carefully and evaluating that," he said.
Mr Morrison said once the head of the Therapeutic Goods Administration John Skerritt approved a vaccine, he would be happy to receive it.
"If Professor Skerritt gives it the tick, then I'm happy to take the jab," he said.
