Over 5m vaccinations administered in the South West

The NHS In the South West has now administered more than 5m covid vaccinations.

According to the latest NHS figures, over 1.7m people in the region have maximum protection from covid-19 after receiving both doses. 

The vaccination programme today - 13 May - opened to people aged 38 and 39.

They will receive a text message inviting them to book via the NHS website or by calling 119. 

Pregnant women are now also able to book through the national booking service and will be directed to vaccination centres offering Pfizer and Moderna in their local area in line with the latest. 

They can also speak to their GP practice or maternity service if they have any questions about the coronavirus vaccine - or can talk to a healthcare professional at their appointment.

Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation Public Health England and NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said: “The vaccination programme goes from strength to strength and it’s great to have hit another milestone.

“We have made fantastic progress and it’s important we keep up the momentum. 

“The vaccination gives you, your family and friends the best protection from this deadly virus and this protection will allow restrictions to continue to be lifted and will help us all begin to get life back to normal. Please take up the offer when you are contacted. 

“If you have already been called but have not made an appointment, remember it is never too late to take up the offer, just contact the national booking system online or via 119 or contact your GP. 

“As well as booking your first appointment when you are invited to do so, it’s important you also make sure you get the second dose of the vaccine to give you maximum protection.”

Elizabeth O’Mahony, Regional Director of the NHS in the South West, said: “The success of the vaccination programme is thanks to the hard work and dedication of the NHS staff and volunteers working tirelessly across the South West.

“The fantastic progress continues and 67 percent of people in the South West have now had a vaccination.  

"As we move through the cohorts and vaccinate the younger people in our population it is important we keep up the momentum.”