‘Having both of your jabs will help us return to normal more quickly’
Summer campaign is now being re-run to encourage people aged under-40 to get their second dose of the coronavirus vaccine
HEALTH chiefs are urging people aged 18 to 39 in Stokeon-trent and Staffordshire to make sure that they get a second dose of their Covid-19 vaccine.
As the national vaccination campaign continues to grow - with people aged between 12 and 17 now being offered the jab - teams want to ensure people in the next age range still come forward to get their second dose as having just a single dose would leave them with lower protection against coronavirus.
Staffordshire and Stoke-on-trent Integrated Care System (ICS) is currently re-running a campaign launched in the summer, encouraging people in this age group to get their second jab.
Dr Paddy Hannigan, right, clinical lead for the vaccination programme, said: “We are urging all people aged 18 and over to ensure that they get their second dose of a Covid-19 vaccine when they are eligible to receive it, both for their own safety and that of the wider community.
“Please don’t put off getting your second jab as you won’t have the full protection that getting fully vaccinated offers.
“Having both of your jabs will help us return to normal more quickly, by protecting yourself, your friends and your family.
“You can also enjoy nightlife, travel, and be better prepared for any winter illnesses knowing you have the best protection available against coronavirus.” People aged 18 to 39 have been offered either the Moderna or Pfizer/biontech vaccine, and will receive the same for their second dose unless they had a severe allergic reaction to their first vaccine.
The Oxford/astrazeneca jab has been reserved for people aged over 40.
Following national guidance, people are eligible to receive their second dose eight weeks after their first jab.
Anyone still needing their first dose is also encouraged to come forward and get their jab.
Appointments for first or second doses can be booked online through the National Booking System by visiting www.nhs.uk, or by calling 119.
Alternatively, patients can visit a walk-in clinic, where no appointment is needed, bringing along proof of their first vaccination if they require a second dose.
However, anyone trying to attend a walk-in clinic earlier than eight weeks after their first vaccine will be turned away until they reach this date.
■ Up-to-date details and times for all Staffordshire Covid-19 vaccination walk-in clinics can be found at https://www.twbstaffsandstoke.org.uk/coronavirus/how-to-get-avaccine-where-and-travelling