Plea to book Covid jab as health bosses in Wiltshire warn virus still circulating
Carers and vulnerable people being looked after urged to get jab
Carers in Wiltshire, along with the people they look after, are being reminded to arrange their Covid-19 vaccination.
The call to book a vaccination appointment from the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group coincides with Carers Week 2022, which celebrates the invaluable work being carried out by paid and unpaid carers up and down the country.
A carer is any person of any age who looks after a friend, relative or partner who is unable to care for themselves due to illness, frailty, mental health or addiction.
At the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, many carers, along with those being looked after, had to remain extra vigilant during the numerous periods of national lockdown to ensure they avoid Covid-19.
Now, with the lifesaving coronavirus vaccine an easily-accessible protection against Covid-19, those who have yet to come forward are advised to proactively book their appointment without delay, especially as invitations are now no longer being sent.
Most people need three separate vaccinations, comprising of two primary doses and a third booster dose, to reach full protection against Covid-19.
Those aged over 75 are also entitled to a second booster dose, which experts say will help prolong the immunity provided through the first three vaccines.
Fiona Hyett, Operations Director at Salisbury City Hall vaccination centre, said:
“Although Covid-19 is no longer the word on everybody’s lips, the virus hasn’t gone away.
“Coronavirus is still very much circulating within our communities, and it still has the potential to make people feel very poorly, which is why it’s so important that those yet to be vaccinated, especially carers and the people they look after, come forward.
“Vaccination teams are still on hand to provide jabs to those who need them, and many of our vaccine clinics currently have very good appointment availability, so getting protected, and getting protected quickly, has never been easier.”
On Friday (10th June) data from the Office for National Statistics showed Covid infections had increased in the UK for the first time in two months with with almost 990,000 people estimated to have had the virus in the last seven days – up from 953,900 last week.
Appointments for the Covid-19 vaccine can be booked online at www.nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119.
In some instances, vaccination centres may be able to see people without an appointment, however it is advisable that those intending to drop in check online beforehand whether a site is accepting walk-ins.