A FANTASTIC response has greeted the offer of COVID-19 vaccinations to children aged 12 to 15 in Dumfries and Galloway, with the bulk of the delivery programme concluding this week.
In just the very first day of the roll-out through schools, a total of 1006 pupils took up the opportunity to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Meanwhile, third doses have been provided to people with weakened immune systems and booster jags are being provided to care home residents and staff, health and social care staff and over 80s, as the offer is gradually extended to everyone over the age of 50.
Dr Nigel Calvert is Immunisation Co-ordinator for Dumfries and Galloway, and he said: “We’ve seen a continued fantastic response to the offer of COVID-19 vaccinations within Dumfries and Galloway.
“Currently, 96 per cent of all adults aged 18 plus have received a first dose against COVID, but we’re continuing to urge every single eligible person to give full consideration to taking up the opportunity.
“The flu vaccination programme is continuing at pace, and with an offer to those being called forward to receive their COVID booster jag if they are eligible – being more than six months from their second.”
Dr Calvert added: “It is possible that we will see a higher rate of flu this year, along with other respiratory illnesses, compounded by the fact that people have not been exposed to these due to protective measures against the coronavirus.
“We’d therefore encourage everyone eligible to take up their chance of a flu jag this year. We’d also encourage everyone eligible to receive a booster against COVID, which will include everyone aged 50 and above.”
Anyone seeking to schedule a COVID vaccination appointment can do so by calling the local helpline on 01387 403090, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, or by emailing [email protected]
For full information on vaccinations, please visit www.nhsdg.co.uk/vaccines/
