COVID-19 vaccination programme gathers pace

Thousands have now had their jab in west Essex…

Early signs suggest the success of the vaccination programme is contributing to the welcome fall in people in hospital with Coronavirus.

But NHS staff are still having to pull out all the stops to deliver what is the largest vaccination drive in our history, at the same time as dealing with high levels of COVID-19 hospital patients.

We need you to continue to play your part too, by accepting your offer of a vaccination when we do contact you, and whether you have had your vaccine or not, please continue to follow all the guidance in place to control the virus and save lives.

In west Essex more than 69,000 people have received their first doses of the COVID vaccine, and those aged 65 and over are now being invited.

The five GP-led sites across Harlow, Epping and Uttlesford continue to hold regular sessions as part of the phased roll-out, alongside the large site at Harlow’s Leisurezone.

• Visit the Healthier Future website to find out more about the west Essex vaccination programme. When you book your appointment you will be asked for your NHS number, which you can usually find on any medical-related document but specific help can be found on the NHS website. Don’t worry if you don’t know it or don’t have one – you can still be vaccinated.

• The recently launched Essex-wide COVID-19 vaccination site also includes lots of useful information.

Before and after your vaccination you should continue to wash your hands, cover your face and keep your distance from others – remember hands, face, space.