Regional rollout of vaccination centres continues

The HSE’s rollout of regional Covid-19 vaccination centres continues apace, with Mallow GAA complex being readied to facilitate clients.

The A vondhu newspaper were among several media outlets invited to Tuesday’s walk through event, where Mary B O’Sullivan (Head Lead for Mallow Vaccination Centre) outlined what the public could expect.

“Firstly, we’re delighted with the venue (Mallow GAA Complex), it’s an ideal location and following a lot of work, it will soon be ready to take clients; all clients will be referred by their GPs, appointment is via an online portal and we intend offering a safe and efficient experience once clients enter the building,” she said.

It’s hoped the centre will be up and running within the next couple of weeks. The media walk through was co-ordinated by HSE Communication Manager, Mary Smithwick. Mary facilitated photographers and ensured reporters were briefed.

MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

While some will claim it was slow to get going, there’s no doubt the Government’s Covid-19 vaccination programme is gaining momentum, which is good news for the entire population - a point echoed by Mary B O’Sullivan.

“The public can be assured that everything that can be done, is being done. HSE staff have been extremely busy and feedback to date is very encouraging. Mallow is part of a national vaccination rollout plan and given the expertise available and the commitment of HSE staff, there’s every reason to believe it will be successful,” she said.

EASY ACCESS, PLENTY PARKING AND MODERN FACILITIES

The facility in Carrigoon is home to Mallow GAA and encompasses several playing fields, outdoor and indoor Astro Turfs, a gymnasium, bar and catering facilities. Ease of access, the provision of ample car parking and the centre’s modern infrastructure were key elements in choosing the venue.

The main vaccination centre is accommodated in the centre’s large indoor Astro Turf arena, where a protective layer has been placed over the specialised surface. Clients will receive their jab in specially constructed cubicles, which allow for privacy.

CITY HALL, CORK VACCINATION CENTRE

Meanwhile, the vaccination centre located in City Hall, Cork, which has been established as a joint project between the South/South West Hospital Group and Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, became operational on Friday,

April 2. The opening day’s vaccination programme was reserved for frontline healthcare workers only, where some 750-800 people were administered the vaccine.

The vaccination centre at Cork City Hall is one of five vaccination centres (across six locations) in County Cork and when fully operational and opened to the public, will have up to 30 booths. The centre will then be used to vaccinate people in line with the vaccine allocation groupings identified within the Governments Covid-19 Vaccination Allocation Strategy.

(Pic: BER FROM BALLYDUFF: Ber Browne, formerly, Bernadette Farrell from Ballyduff Upper in Co. Waterford, pictured at last Tuesday’s promotional event for Mallow Vaccination Centre. Ber’s mother, 94-year-old Sheila Farrell, a resident in St. Carthage’s Home, Lismore is an avid reader of The Avondhu, who avails of the publication to keep up to date with local events and happenings. John Ahern)

(Pic: John Ahern) M I T C H E L S TOWN ’ S MAIREAD MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Public Health Nurse, Mairead Finn from Mitchelstown, who is part of the team at the soon to be opened Mallow Vaccination Centre.

(Pic: John DEIRDRE DELIVERS: Public Health Nurse, Deirdre Barry from Castlelyons, who is part of the support team at the new vaccination facility in Mallow. Ahern)