ONE of the South West’s most senior doctors has called on Teignbridge residents to get boosted before Christmas.
It comes as a record number of vaccines were delivered in the South West last week with over 500,000 vaccines being given in the region since Monday, December 13.
Dr Michael Marsh said: ‘In addition we delivered the most COVID-19 vaccinations in one day, on Saturday 18 December. Staff supported by volunteers administered over one hundred thousand Covid-19 vaccinations and so far the NHS in England has delivered more than 20 million boosters.
Dr Marsh encouraged everyone to book their booster, warning the new Omicron variant meant ‘there’s no room for complacency’, and urging people to book a jab before the end of the year.
His call comes as the National Booking service opened for 12 to 15-year olds to get their second COVID-19 jab.
Dr Michael Marsh, SW Medical Director NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said: ‘This record-breaking week is a testament to the tireless efforts of our NHS staff and the public’s ongoing commitment to protect themselves and others, against the threat of Omicron.
‘We need to keep up the momentum of last week and with the Omicron variant causing so much uncertainty, there is no room for complacency, so book today.
‘Once again, we are asking people to come forward as quickly as possible. If you are invited for your booster, book an appointment as soon as possible. ‘And, if you still haven’t had your first or second dose, it is not too late, and we urge you to come forward today.’
Rachel Pearce, Director Commissioning (South West) NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said: ‘We are working to increase capacity, offer extended opening hours, stand up more vaccination centres and support more GPs and community pharmacies to be able to offer lifesaving jabs across the country.
‘I appreciate the support we have received from the public and their patience and understanding whilst we arrange more capacity to deliver vaccinations at a significantly increased pace.
‘We are calling upon all volunteers, staff and partners such as local councils and voluntary and community organisations to work with us once again to deliver the biggest vaccination programme we have ever seen.’
‘Now is the time to book and come forward for your vaccination to give yourself and your family and friends the best protection against Covid-19.’
Thousands of volunteers and paid staff are also being recruited to support the delivery of the vaccine programme, and anyone interested in helping the NHS is being urged to search COVID vaccine team to find out more at https://www.england.nhs.uk/coronavirus/join-the-nhs-covid-19-vaccine-team/