Groups of GP practices in South Cheshire have started rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine in local communities.
Initially focusing on protecting those at highest risk, it follows the launch of the vaccination programme in hospitals on December 8.
In Cheshire, a local vaccination service went live in Winsford, Frodsham and Macclesfield initially with Nantwich, Crewe and other towns following suit.
To help the NHS deliver the COVID-19 vaccination programme effectively, Cheshire residents are asked to follow this simple guidance:
• We will contact people in the priority groups when it is their turn to receive the vaccine. Please do not contact the NHS to seek a vaccine before then.
• When you are invited for a vaccine, please act on your invite and make sure you attend appointments when you arrange them.
• Please continue to wear a face covering and abide by social distancing and hand hygiene guidance as, until the vaccine has been fully rolled out, this is the most effective way to save lives.
Dr Chris Ritchieson, Medical Director at Cheshire West Integrated Care Partnership, said: “I am delighted that Cheshire West GPs are set to start rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine across local communities.
“Clearly, the sooner we are able to protect our most vulnerable residents, the better.
“Given the scale of the task, this will be a marathon, not a sprint, but we also know that every marathon starts with a single step.”
Dr Patrick Kearns, Medical Director at Cheshire East Integrated Care Partnership, said: “When you are invited to receive a vaccination, it is really important that you act upon it to help protect yourself and your loved ones and help us get on top of this awful virus.”
Alongside delivering a COVID-19 vaccine, GP practices across Cheshire will, of course, continue to offer routine appointments to those that need them.
If in any doubt about which local health service you need you are, however, advised to contact NHS 111 first – either by dialling 111 or online at: 111.nhs.uk
I am 81. When will I get a virus jab.?