North West health chief reminds the most vulnerable and carers to get their Covid jab

Tens of thousands of the most vulnerable people across the North West are still at risk from Covid-19, according to the regional lead for the vaccine programme.

While 83% of people in JCVI cohort 6 - those aged 16 to 65 with a long term health condition, a learning disability and carers - have received at least one dose of the vaccine, 150,000 eligible people are yet to be vaccinated.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning (North West), urged them to come forward, warning they could be at greater risk of being hospitalised if they catch the virus.

She said: “As infection rates continue to rise from the Delta variant across the North West, it’s more important than ever that people who have not been vaccinated, especially those with long term conditions and learning disabilities, come forward now.

“We know that the most vulnerable people are almost six times more likely to become seriously ill from the virus than their peers, meaning it is vital they are vaccinated to protect themselves as well as the people around them.

“If you are worrying about possible side effects from the Covid-19 vaccine and how they may affect your work and caring responsibilities, it’s important to remember that these are short-term compared to not having the jab and potentially becoming seriously ill and even having long lasting symptoms if you get long Covid.”

More than 8.7 million vaccinations have been delivered in the North West to date, part of over 68 million vaccinations that have been delivered in total by the NHS in England.

Across the region, walk-in clinics are making it easier for people to fit in having a vaccine around their work, family and caring responsibilities.  Find your nearest walk-in centre and opening times at:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/north-west/grab-a-jab/

or book an appointment on the National Booking Service website at:

www.nhs.uk/Covid-Vaccination.

Pictured - Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning (North West).