Quarter of Weymouth over 80’s now vaccinated
The full vaccination programme could take ‘months and months’ unless more stock's brought in
A quarter of Weymouth over 80’s have been vaccinated against COVID-19, according to a local GP and councillor.
But, Dr Jon Orrell is warning those that remain could be waiting ‘months and months’ if new stock isn’t brought in.
He’s hopeful newly approved Oxford and Moderna vaccines may bring a steadier flow of jabs to the town.
He said:
“We’re not getting enough stock yet. If it comes through at the current rate it would take months and months to get everyone done, so we need it to come through quicker and in greater volumes.
“We’re pretty sure that’s going to happen, from what we’re hearing nationally."
One of the reasons stock comes through slowly, he says, is quality assurance.
Instead of going straight from factory to GP clinic, the vaccine is sent to be tested first.
Dr Orrell added:
“From the public’s point of view, you can be reassured that the vaccine has been double-checked to make sure it’s safe and consistent, but it is adding a delay.”
When will I get the vaccine?
Care homes and those over 80 are being prioritised at the moment. If you are over 80 and you’re wondering why you’ve not been given the jab yet, you’re being assured your time will come.
GP services are experiencing a number of calls with people asking when they’ll get the vaccine.
Dr Orrell said:
“As soon as we can get it we can give it, but we need more supply. Hopefully, with more vaccine suppliers coming on, with this third one coming, we will be able to give out more.
“We’re working down in categories of risk, so the care homes are right at the top. Then it is the over 80s and then the 70s.
“So those that haven’t heard, sit tight because you will be called in. There is no need to ring the surgery, we do know who needs it. Sit tight, as soon as the vaccine comes, we’ll call you in.”