South West NHS staff deliver 10m covid vaccinations

NHS bosses have thanked staff in the South West after the milestone of 10m vaccinations was reached.

The achievement comes less than a year after the covid vaccination programme was launched.

Rachel Pearce, Regional Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the Covid Vaccination programme for NHS England, South West, led the praise for staff.

She said: “Since the start of the programme NHS staff in the South West have consistently demonstrated that they will go above and beyond to continue to deliver exceptional care. This commitment has helped provide 10 million covid vaccines across the South West to enable people to protect themselves, their loved ones, friends and our wider communities.

“Staff and volunteers have been working hard to make sure that those who come forward for their vaccination are looked after in the same caring way we always strive for, and we are immensely grateful for that. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their contribution to this incredible effort.”

“The NHS is currently treating significant numbers of patients across every service. The best way you can help support the NHS is to book your Covid19 vaccination when eligible to give yourself the best chance to stay well this winter. Can I also encourage those who have not come forward for vaccination yet to book - we are still offering first and second doses in addition to booster vaccinations.”

Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said: “Thanks to our hard-working staff and volunteers, it’s wonderful to see us reach another big milestone. The best way people can thank our NHS staff is by coming forward for their vaccination when eligible, protecting themselves and staying well this winter.”

People are eligible to receive a booster vaccine no earlier than six months after their second dose. However, to allow them to plan ahead they can make that appointment from five months after the second dose. Booking ahead is encouraged.

People aged over Over 40 can now book their booster via the nhs website or by calling 119, and people aged 16 and 17 can now book their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine at least 12 weeks after initial vaccination or 12 weeks after being infected if this is more recent. This can be booked in the same way.

Clinicians have been identifying patients who need a third primary dose due to immunosuppression. The NHS is writing to patients who may be eligible, so they can talk through their options with their GP or consultant if they have not done so already.