Vulnerable adults and carers over 60 to receive jab

PROGRESS Covid-19 vaccine programme

MEDICALLY vulnerable adults who did not get a shielding letter and carers aged 60 to 64 will now receive their coronavirus vaccines, say health chiefs.

The Department of Health announced the vaccine programme extension yesterday, saying the jabs will be provided by both GPS and at seven regional Health Trust vaccination centres in line with their “twin-track approach”.

To date, more than 438,708 coronavirus vaccines have now been administered in Northern Ireland.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “I would really encourage anyone who is eligible for vaccination at a regional centre to book as soon as possible.

“The vaccination programme is making good progress and I am very pleased that we are able to announce these further extensions today.

“It had been planned to begin vaccinating carers in early March. I am delighted that we are now able to bring this forward, on a staggered basis.

“As ever, the rate of our progress through the eligible groups will depend on available supplies of vaccines.”

The latest extension will see the start of a major vaccination drive for carers, with GPS and the regional vaccination centres both playing their part.

GPS will also be providing the jab to more people with underlying health conditions.

In addition, anyone over 70 who has not yet had their first dose from their GP will have the option to book a vaccination appointment at one of the seven regional centres.

Sinn Fein MLA Colm Gildernew welcomed the announcement. The chair of the health committee said: “I have been contacted by many carers who have been anxiously waiting to receive the vaccine in order to ensure they can safely care for their loved ones.

“I would urge people who are currently eligible to book their vaccine.” To make a vaccination centre appointment, ring 0300 200 7813 (Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm) or visit covid-19.hscni.net/ get-vaccinated.