ANYONE in the region still to be vaccinated against COVID is being urged to take up the opportunity – against the national backdrop of high numbers of cases.
All originally scheduled first dose vaccinations for adults aged 18 plus and anyone 16 plus who is immune-suppressed in Dumfries and Galloway have been completed.
However, first doses of the COVID vaccine are still being offered to those who have rescheduled or are now looking to take up the opportunity – available through scheduled appointments or via a range of drop-in clinics across the region.
Director of Pharmacy Graeme Bryson said: “As we move further out of lockdown, there is the possibility of increased cases of the coronavirus within our communities.
“Any plans to ease restrictions will be on the basis of the progress made with the national vaccination programme, which provides a high degree of protection to adults and those most vulnerable.
“Vaccines help train the body’s own natural immune systems to fight the virus – hopefully preventing people from experiencing its worst effects.
“The vaccines are not a guarantee of full protection, but unless someone has previously had COVD the alternative now is exposure to the virus with an immune system which has not been prepared to counter this threat.”
Mr Bryson added: “We’re seeing the effects of the Delta Variant, and also seeing younger people account for a higher number of cases.
“So please, if you haven’t yet had your first vaccination, register online atwww.nhsinform.scot/vaccineregistration, contact our local team by phoning 01387 403090 from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, emailing [email protected], or attending one of our drop-in clinics across the region, with details on locations available by visiting www.nhsdg.co.uk/vaccines”
As at end of 4 July 2021, a total of 113,863 first dose vaccinations had been delivered in Dumfries and Galloway, representing 92.8 per cent of everyone aged 18 plus.
Meanwhile, second dose vaccinations are continuing on the basis of an eight week interval, with 86,066 delivered – or 70.1 per cent of everyone aged 18 plus.
Mr Bryson said: “These figures currently represent the highest percentages of people aged 18 plus vaccinated in any mainland Scottish NHS board.
“However, there are still many people in our communities yet to be vaccinated, with the potential for the virus to be more easily transmitted as restrictions continue to ease. We want to ensure that everyone has considered the situation, is aware of the access to free, quick and easy vaccinations, and is supported to take up opportunities to be vaccinated if they choose to do so.
“We now have drop-in clinics taking place across the region. These clinics provide further opportunities for anyone not yet vaccinated to pop in and be vaccinated against COVID.”
