NHS reiterate spring Covid-19 vaccination offer
By Priya Mistry
NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW have reiterated their offer for eligible residents to book their free spring Covid-19 vaccination before their continuing programme closes at the end of June; the trust hoping to build upon recent statistics that show that 150,000 vaccinations have been given over the last five weeks.
Vaccinations have been given to those who are aged 75 or over, care home residents, and those at increased risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. This means 49% of those eligible across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have already received their spring vaccine, which is being offered to the above groups alongside people aged over six months with a weakened immune system.
Dr Zaid Hirmiz, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer for NHS Hampshire & IOW, said: “Since the start of the spring programme, almost 150,000 people have already come forward for their COVID-19 vaccination, helping to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”
They continued to say: “It is encouraging that nearly half of those eligible have now had their vaccine, but we still have appointments available over the coming weeks, and I would urge anyone who is eligible not to miss out.”
“While for many people COVID-19 may feel like a thing of the past, the virus continues to circulate and can still cause serious illness, particularly for older people and those with weakened immune systems. Getting your spring dose boosts your protection and reduces the risk of hospitalisation if you do catch the virus.”
Among those that took up the offer of a vaccination was Barbara Devall, who received her vaccination in Waterlooville Health Centre. She said: “My mum always told me if there’s a vaccination going and you can have it, then you should take it. People in the health service and scientists who work hard to create these vaccines do so to keep us safe. That’s why I make sure I have all of mine.”
Eligible people may have been invited directly via their GP practice already, but they don’t need to wait for an official invitation to book a vaccination. Slots are available at multiple GP practices, pharmacies and pop up / roving clinics in the region, with the location to be made clear for people when they book their appointment. Details of any roving clinics will also be updated on the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s vaccinations page.
If anybody is unsure about eligibility and their personal health conditions, they can contact the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Covid Vaccination Helpline team by phoning 0300 561 0018. They will be able to ask questions, book vaccination slots and follow up if required for customers who call this free contact number.
PICTURED BY NHS HAMPSHIRE AND ISLE OF WIGHT: People can book their spring Covid-19 vaccination across the region as part of trust campaign, which ends on June 30.
