Huge vaccination effort in Sussex last weekend as 22,000 people received Covid jab
More than 22,000 people received their Covid-19 jab in one weekend, as part of a big push for vaccination in Sussex.
Across our communities, people queued for their jabs on Saturday and Sunday’s walk-in sessions, in the final push to ensure all adults are vaccinated against Covid-19.
On top of the 20,000 jabs given at larger vaccination centres and pharmacies over the weekend, 2,000 more were vaccinated at walk in sessions in Bognor Regis and other Sussex locations.
Amy Galea, senior responsible officer for the Sussex Covid-19 Vaccination Programme, said: “It was so encouraging to see the scenes across the weekend as our services pulled out all the stops to offer as many walk in sessions as possible.
“We know that walk in vaccination sessions work for people who would rather not make a fixed appointment and those who would like to get their vaccine with friends or family, and this weekend was a great step forward to make sure that all adults are vaccinated against Covid-19.
“We want to say a huge thanks to everyone who attended for their vaccination and all the clinicians, volunteers and organisers who worked hard over the weekend to ensure as many people as possible received their first or second dose.
“The hard work doesn’t stop here, there are plans for many more walk in sessions this weekend and over the next three weeks to make sure everyone has the opportunity to receive their vaccination before the middle of July.”
First doses are still available for anyone who hasn’t yet received their vaccination and the local NHS is calling on everyone who wants to arrange it to come forward.
You can book online via the national booking system or by calling 119, or attending one of the walk in sessions.
The NHS is also urging people not to delay second doses. Over 50s are now being invited to bring second appointments forward to eight weeks rather than 12.
Ms Galea continued: “It is vital that everyone makes sure they receive their second dose. With rising rates of Covid-19 in some of our communities, it is vital protection.
“If you are contacted to bring forward your second dose appointment I would urge you to do this as soon as possible, as getting both doses is what will give everyone the maximum possible protection against the virus.
“The vaccine is our most effective shield and there has never been a more important time to get protected.”
For more information on the Covid-19 vaccination programme in Sussex, where you can have your vaccine in the area, and details of the upcoming walk in sessions planned over the next week, visit: www. sussexhealthandcare.uk