Minister call-up after jab

HEALTH Minister Robin Swann has urged everyone eligible for a coronavirus jab to come forward for it.

The minister, aged 49, received his first dose of the Astrazeneca jab at a Ballee Pharmacy in Ballymena, Co Antrim, on the day the rollout was expanded to his age group.

The vaccination programme was widened yesterday to include the 45-49s.

Mr Swann emphasised the importance of as many getting vaccinated as quickly as possible.

He said: “Today I came to community pharmacy and got the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine which is the one we are using mainly across Northern Ireland.

“It is important that we get as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible, that’s why we are putting such a concerted effort into this programme, and that’s why we’re seeing such a great uptake from those eligible.

“For those who are still hesitant, I am confident enough to come here to take Oxford Astrazeneca because my age profile now fits in, so when yours does as well, I’ll ask anyone, please come forward.”

By yesterday, 887,598 vaccines had been administered in the region, 749,112 of which were first doses and 138,486 were second doses.

All those who are eligible can book to receive their jab at a vaccination centre or participating community pharmacy, as well as the option of waiting for their GP to contact them.

First Minister Arlene Foster received her vaccine in Co Fermanagh last weekend.

Booking can be done online at covid-19.hscni. net/get-vaccinated or by calling 0300 200 7813.

A further 123 cases of the virus were recorded in the last 24-hour reporting period with no deaths.