The NHS in Kent and Medway is urging those eligible to book a Covid-19 vaccination while supplies are plentiful for the next two weeks.
There are many appointments available until the end of March at large vaccination centres as well as at GP-led vaccination sites and pharmacies across the county.
Anyone who is aged 50 and over can now book their Covid-19 vaccine online at nhs.uk/covid-vaccination, or by calling 119. The booking system is also open to those who are clinically extremely vulnerable, clinically vulnerable, eligible frontline health and social care workers, carers and those with learning disabilities.
Paula Wilkins, Chief Nurse at Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “The people being invited for their vaccines now are the most vulnerable to coronavirus so it’s really important they come forward for a jab.
"There will be a significant reduction in the weekly vaccine supply during April but we have plenty of slots available for the next couple of weeks and supply is not an issue.”
Recent data shows that after a single dose of either the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccine, protection against getting Covid is around 60%, protection against hospitalisation is around 80% and protection against death is around 85%. Additionally, those living with someone who has been vaccinated have a 30% lower risk of catching Covid.
Paula Wilkins continued: “The data we have now on the effectiveness of the vaccines is extremely encouraging, particularly because there is evidence that having the vaccine prevents you transmitting the virus to others. Even if you think coronavirus won’t affect you much, you can help your friends and family by getting a jab – it really does save lives.
“We know some people are worried about the possible side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine in particular but it’s important to remember that all medicines have a risk of side effects. As Professor Van-Tam recently explained, even paracetamol lists numerous rare side effects but we all understand the benefits as well. He also pointed out there was no evidence of an increased risk of blood clots with the AstraZeneca jab.”
More than 737,000 vaccines have been given at one of the 60 vaccination sites in Kent and Medway.
People in priority groups one to nine will receive a letter or text inviting them to book a vaccination. However, those eligible do not need to wait for an invite as they can book online or by calling 119 now. GPs are also continuing to invite eligible people for a jab.
The NHS is also reminding people who have had the vaccine that it does not provide instant immunity. Social distancing guidelines should still be followed, face masks worn where appropriate and people should continue to wash their hands frequently.
For more information on the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination in Kent and Medway, visit www.kentandmedwayccg.nhs.uk/covid19vaccine.