Over 80s to get vaccine by end of Feb

People over 80 are set to be offered a Covid vaccine by the end of next month, insist health chiefs.

More than 10,500 coronavirus vaccines have already been given out to priority groups, including healthcare staff on the frontline.

Health staff have been vaccinated to protect them against Covid-19.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran has confirmed that more than 2100 care home residents have been given their first dose.

Now plans have been ramped up to deliver the vaccine to elderly residents in the community.

By January 25, all GP practices will have started to give the first dose of the vaccine, with health bosses aiming to have all patients aged 80 or over vaccinated by the end of the month.

Vicki Campbell, head of primary and urgent care services, said: “We will be in touch directly with patients, inviting them in for a vaccination appointment and we would encourage everyone who is eligible, to please attend.

John Burns, chief executive of NHS Ayrshire and Arran, said: “We recognise that people across Ayrshire and Arran are keen to know when they will receive their vaccinations. Right across the health and social care system, our staff are working tirelessly to make sure that we can deliver the vaccine to each of the relevant groups when they are due to receive it. This is a huge task and we ask the public to be patient with this process.

“I want to reassure everyone that we will offer the vaccinations in a systematic way, as supply of vaccine allows, to ensure that those who are most vulnerable are prioritised.

“In the meantime please remember to continue following the FACTS guidance to help stop the transmission of Covid-19 in our communities and better protect our family, friends and colleagues from the negative impacts of coronavirus.”