Now that the COVID-19 vaccination programme has began, I thought I would share with residents of Bradwell North exactly how this is being done.
The COVID-19 vaccination programme is the largest in the history of the NHS and has been planned extensively by the NHS so it can be rolled out as quickly and safely as possible.
The James Paget University Hospital (JPUH) kicked-off the vaccination programme on Wednesday, 9 December 2020. Along with the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH), they are the first sites in Norfolk and Waveney to receive the vaccine. The Queen Elizabeth in Kings Lynn will soon be involved as well.
Currently, Norfolk has begun vaccinating care home workers and members of the public who are 80 and over. It is very important to remember that, at this current time, vaccinations are by appointment only. Initial supplies of the vaccine are limited and being given to those most at risk from COVID-19 including a small number for at risk frontline NHS staff. People over the age of 80 will be contacted by their GP practice.
The vaccine is provided free on the NHS and is given via an injection in the upper arm, with a second ‘booster’ vaccination around three to four weeks later. All people due to be vaccinated will be asked to fill in a health screening questionnaire and consent form.
Vaccinating all adults will be a marathon not a sprint.
The first community vaccination sites will begin operating later in the month and, over the coming months, people will be invited when it’s their turn to be vaccinated. Do not ask your GP or hospital, please wait for your invite.
Public Health England has published a series of guides for people who will receive the COVID-19 vaccine first. Take a look at the guides if you are in one of the following groups, or share them with family members and friends who are, as well as any community groups or networks you belong to:
- COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults
- COVID-19 vaccination: guide for healthcare workers
- COVID-19 vaccination: a guide for social care staff
Public Health England has also produced information for women of childbearing age, those currently pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding about the COVID-19 vaccination.
I will be updating residents throughout the roll out of this vaccine. In the meantime, the best thing we can all do to protect ourselves, our families and our communities is to wash hands, cover face, and make space.
I do hope that the information I have provided shows that there is now some light to be seen at the end of the tunnel, and that we have the prospect of a better 2021 in front of us.
If I can help residents with anything, please do contact me at [email protected], or ring me on 07824 012721
