Region’s vaccine lead urges ‘Let’s keep Covid-19 offside’

As the nation prepares for England v Italy in the Euro 2020 Final, the North West’s vaccine lead has urged people to ‘keep Covid-19 offside’ and come forward for their jab.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning, said increased numbers of walk-in and mobile clinics would make it easier and more convenient than ever for people to fit in having a vaccine, with some taking place close to venues where the final match is being screened.

She said:

“As England prepares to take on its next football challenge, we are continuing our efforts to beat Covid-19. I’d encourage people who haven’t had their first dose of the vaccine to come forward now to take their shot.”

Lancashire and South Cumbria Covid-19 Vaccination Director Jane Scattergood said:

“We are now inviting everyone over 18 to bring their second dose appointment forward to eight weeks to ensure everyone has the strongest possible protection as soon as possible.

The Covid vaccines are two-dose vaccines so you must have both doses for maximum benefit and protection to you, your friends, and your family.

Remember – it’s a game to two halves – you need both doses.  Do the double, be a champion and let’s beat this virus together.”

The initiative will also support efforts to accelerate second doses for people who had their first dose 8 or more weeks ago, with walk-in second dose clinics also available.

People can find their nearest walk-in vaccine clinic at: www.healthierlsc.co.uk/getmyjab

Vaccines will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at walk-in clinics and those with appointments will be able to attend at their timed slot and receive their vaccine as planned.

Vaccine clinics taking place near to Euro 2020 screenings include St John’s Shopping Centre in Preston, where people will be able to drop in for their vaccine before watching the match on the giant screen on the Flag Market. Vaccines are available there Monday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm, with no appointment needed.

Almost 8.5 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine have been given in the North West since the vaccination programme – the largest in NHS history – launched seven months ago.