Local vaccination services run by GP's will open across the region this week, as the roll-out of the biggest immunisation programme in NHS history gains momentum.
GPs and other primary care staff have been working round the clock to ensure those most at risk are able to receive the vaccine first, with the first surgery in Weston Super Mare now equipped to begin vaccinating patients this week.
Practices have been working together in groups called ‘Primary Care Networks’ to provide the vaccine across the region. People aged 80 and over, as well as care home workers, will be the first to be invited to get the jab – with local people urged to wait their turn to be called.
The first site administering vaccinations this week as part of the ‘Wave 1’ GP-led programme is
Riverbank Medical Centre. People over 80 who are most at risk from Covid-19 are the priority cohort, based on advice from the national independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Local GP Dr John Heather, who will be vaccinating people at Riverside surgery from today said: “This is a historic moment and we are delighted to be able to start vaccinating the most vulnerable people over the age of 80 from today."
"We have been booking appointments for the last few days in line with the national prioritisation guidance, and we are asking everyone to be patient, and not to contact your local surgery. Don’t worry – we will call you when it’s your turn. This is a huge undertaking, and we want to thank our incredible staff who have worked round the clock to ensure we have been able to start vaccinating as quickly as possible.”
Due to limited early supply of the vaccine, the Wave 1 sites have been selected on the basis of geography, the number of over 80s in the local population and operational readiness. More local sites will be announced in the coming weeks.
Further information on the vaccine is available via the national NHS website.
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