Huge milestone hit in South West vaccine roll out
The regional director of NHS England says everyone involved should feel really proud
Last updated 22nd Apr 2021
More than a million people across the South West have now had both doses of a coronavirus vaccine.
The news comes as the number of people in the region who have had at least one dose tops three million.
Getting both doses, with the second delivered 12 weeks after the first, maximises protection against COVID-19.
Elizabeth O'Mahony, the regional director of NHS England and NHS Improvement said: "This is a fantastic milestone, and everyone involved in the vaccination rollout, both frontline and behind the scenes, should feel really proud.
“The success of the vaccination rollout has already contributed to dramatic falls in infections, hospitalisations and deaths from the virus.
“However, even when vaccinated it’s important we all continue to follow all the guidance in place, including hands, face and space.”
Infection rates across the South West and the country at large have been steadily dropping for weeks.
In Bristol it currently sits at 22.7 per 100,000 people, with the rate much lower in other parts of the region.
Bath and North East Somerset's rate sits at 9.3 per 100,000, Somerset West and Taunton's is at 9.0 per 100,000, while Torbay's is at 7.3 per 100,000.
Plymouth's is at 7.2 per 100,000, Cheltenham's is slightly higher than that at 14.6 per 100,000 and Swindon's is at 23.4 per 100,000.
Currently the same vaccine is used for both doses but various scientific trials are underway including in the South West, to see whether the vaccines can be mixed and matched in future.
People who received their first dose in a hospital hub or through a GP service will be contacted to receive their second dose.
Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation in the South West added: “The second dose is really important for maximum long term protection, so when you are due to have yours please make sure you attend your appointment.
“If you’re eligible for your first dose but haven’t booked yet please join the millions of people who are helping to protect themselves and others.
"It’s a really important step in continuing our progress back towards normal life.”
NHS staff are working hard alongside volunteers to ensure that everyone in the eligible cohorts has been offered a vaccination appointment. This is now extended to people aged 45 and over.
Anyone who has not yet taken up their invitation is encouraged to book their slot as soon as possible by visiting www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine or calling 119.
As well as those aged 45 or over, that includes frontline health and social care workers, carers, and people with health conditions that mean they are more at risk of serious illness if they get COVID-19.