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GP-led local vaccination centres are beginning to open their doors in west Essex, with more to follow in the coming weeks.
People aged over 80
In line with national guidance and to protect those who are the most as risk first, the vaccine is initially being offered in the community to people aged over 80. GP practices are working through their patient lists and will contact people when it is their turn to be vaccinated.
Reunite families
One of the first people to get his vaccination was Frank Binder, 85, from Moreton.
His wife Marianne said:
We have been in isolation since February and haven’t dared go out anywhere. Our daughter lives down the road from us and she can’t come to see us with the grandchildren. If they were to come round it would be a burden on them because it would put them on edge.
Now once Frank has had the vaccine and the rest of the family get it we will all feel better and no-one will have to panic.
NHS key messages
As more centres are set to roll out the key messages from the NHS are:
- Don’t call us – we’ll call you when your vaccination is ready
- It’s very important to get the follow up jab too
- Keep to all the Covid guidance – Hands, Face, Space.
Encouraging response
Rob Gerlis, Chair of West Essex CCG, said:
We have waited a long time for this vaccine and after a lot of hard work and effort by staff, voluntary sector colleagues, local authorities and partners, it’s finally here and up and running. It gives us all something to cheer about.
It’s been encouraging to see so many people taking up the offer of a vaccine. Patients have been incredibly excited to get the vaccine and appreciative of the hard work put in by so many people to make it happen.
Confirmed open vaccination centres
In the West Essex CCG area, vaccination centres which have been confirmed as opening this week include:
- Stansted Surgery in Stansted Mountfitchet,
- St Margaret’s Hospital site in Epping
- Lister Medical Centre in Harlow.
Find out more
Find out more about the vaccine and how it works on the West Essex NHS website
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