"It's not too late" vaccine plea from NHS Grampian
The health board are appealing to the North East public, especially those 18-29, that there is still plenty of opportunity to get their jab.
Last updated 2nd Aug 2021
"it's not too late" that's the message from NHS Grampian to young people.
The health board are encouraging those who haven't had their Covid jab yet to come forward and roll up their sleeves.
Just under 74% of people aged 18-29 in the region have had their first dose of the vaccine, but public health officials want to drive that figure up.
Katrina Morrison, Clinical Lead Nurse for COVID-19 vaccination said: “Our performance in Grampian is very slightly ahead of the national average but we want to do even better. The message to anyone aged 18-29 is clear – it’s not too late to get vaccinated!"
If you’re 18 and over - or due to turn 18 between now and 31 October 2021 - you are able to arrange vaccination by completing the self-registration form on the NHS Inform website. This allows you to book an appointment at a time that suits you and receive confirmation by email or text.
Drop-in clinics are also available in the area, you can find regular updates on those via the NHS Grampian social media pages.
Katrina added: “We know people aged 18-29 may have been unable to get their jab because they’ve either been advised to self-isolate as a close contact or have tested positive for COVID-19. If self-isolating, once your 10-day isolation period has passed you can arrange a vaccination appointment. If you had a positive COVID-19 test, the recommendations are you receive your vaccine four weeks after onset of symptoms - or four weeks from the first confirmed positive specimen if you didn’t have symptoms.
“In line with current JCVI guidance, people aged 18-29 will be offered an mRNA vaccine. The Aberdeen mass vaccination centre carries both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, all other clinics offer Pfizer. People should be aware it is not possible to choose which vaccine you have, unless your clinical history dictates otherwise.”
Keiran Fleming is 23 and lives in Bridge of Don and has had both doses of vaccine. He said: "When I first found out I was getting the vaccine I was more excited than anything else. I believe the vaccine is the best way towards a return to normality and a good way to keep myself and loved ones safe. After the first dose my throat was a bit swollen and my arm was sore for a couple of days. Luckily after the second dose I was completely fine."