Almost 10,000 Covid boosters given at Salisbury City Hall
Renewed plea for residents to get the jab
Last updated 21st Dec 2021
A record breaking number of Covid boosters were delivered in the South West last week, with over 500,000 thousand given in the region since Monday 13th December.
Almost 10,000 have been administered at Salisbury City Hall.
Meanwhile one of the region's top doctors is calling for the momentum to continue
South West Medical Director Dr Michael Marsh is encouraging everyone to book their booster, warning the new Omicron variant meant “there’s no room for complacency”, and urging people to book a jab before the end of the year.
His call comes as the National Booking service opened for 12-15-year olds to get their second COVID-19 jab.
“This record-breaking week is a testament to the tireless efforts of our NHS staff and the public’s ongoing commitment to protect themselves and others, against the threat of Omicron.
“We need to keep up the momentum of last week and with the Omicron variant causing so much uncertainty, there is no room for complacency, so book today. Once again, we are asking people to come forward as quickly as possible. If you are invited for your booster, book an appointment as soon as possible. And, if you still haven’t had your first or second dose, it is not too late, and we urge you to come forward today.”
Rachel Pearce, Director Commissioning (South West) NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said:
“We are working to increase capacity, offer extended opening hours, stand up more vaccination centres and support more GPs and community pharmacies to be able to offer lifesaving jabs across the country. “
“I appreciate the support we have received from the public and their patience and understanding whilst we arrange more capacity to deliver vaccinations at a significantly increased pace.”
Last week a new vaccination centre opened in an empty shop in Salisbury's Bourne Retail Centre whilst doctors surgeries have rammed up clinics across the area.
Meanwhile Salisbury City Hall has capacity for walk-ins today (21st December)
The site will be close Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day for both walk ins and booked appointments and with staff back putting jabs in arms on the 27th December.
The facility will also be unable to offer vaccinations on the 1st or 2nd of January as work is taking place in the hall.
Thousands of volunteers and paid staff are also being recruited to support the delivery of the vaccine programme, and anyone interested in helping the NHS is being urged to search ‘COVID vaccine team’ to find out more.