Civic leaders calling for people to get jabs

Civic leaders in the North East are calling on people to get vaccinated against Covid-19 – and follow the official guidance to limit the spread of the virus.

The statement – from council leaders, mayors and the Northumbria Police Commissioner – says great progress is being made with the rollout of Covid-19 jabs and pays tribute to the health workers and volunteers deliveringthevaccine programme.

They also encourages people have have the jab when offered, saying it is safe to do so – despite “dangerous anti-vax stories” circulating on social media and elsewhere.

The statement says: “Great progress is being made in our communities with the roll-out of Covid-19 vaccines, with many of those inthehighestprioritygroups receiving at least their first dose. The vast majority of people are taking up the offer of a free vaccine, and this is incredibly pleasing.

“Ourcommunitychampions are working closely with wider communities and the small number of people who have declined the vaccine, to give them accurate information and counter some of the dangerous antivax stories circulating on social media and elsewhere.

“These vaccines are meticulously reviewed prior to approval to ensure their safety for use, and we would encourage people to have the vaccine when the time comes to make an appointment.

“Our sincerest thanks go to all health colleagues and themanyvolunteerswhoare working tirelessly to deliver this vaccination programme but it will take many more months before everybody is vaccinated.”