Vaccine centres open in Epping Forest and Harlow

Hundreds of residents aged 80 and over will receive their first Covid-19 immunisation jab.

GP-led local vaccination centres are beginning to open their doors in Hertfordshire and west Essex, with more to follow in the coming weeks.

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.

Dr Jane Halpin said: “The amount of work that has gone into preparing for the biggest ever vaccination programme in the history of the NHS cannot be overestimated. The work undertaken by Primary Care – our GP practice staff - has been simply remarkable. In addition, our district and county council colleagues, the police and the wider family of NHS organisations have been involved in supporting a number of the community vaccination sites, helping to bring the vaccine into local communities in a safe and secure way. “I would like to thank everyone who is continuing to play their part in helping to protect our communities from the virus.”

Everyone who is vaccinated will need a booster jab after 21 days. It takes a few weeks after getting the second dose for the person’s antibodies to reach their optimum level.

In the West Essex CCG area, vaccination centres which have been confirmed as opening this week include: St Margaret’s Hospital site in Epping, Lister Medical Centre in Harlow and Stansted Surgery in Stansted Mountfitchet.

Dorothy De’ath, 89, from Takeley was the first to arrive for her vaccination. She said: “I am really pleased to know something is being done about this now. It’s my birthday just a few days after the second vaccination in January so it’s an early birthday present!”

Ray Wright, 80, of Hatfield Broadoak said: “I am absolutely enthralled. I can’t believe how quickly this was done as I turned 80 last Wednesday so I thought I would have to wait. I couldn’t wait to come in for the vaccination.”

John Monk, 83 and wife Shirley from Takeley, both had their vaccinations together. John said: “What an amazing group of people who have made these vaccinations possible. I am so impressed. I was booked in quickly by a lovely young lady and it is quite amazing for it all to have happened so fast.

“The vaccination itself was very quick and painless. My experience has been 100 per cent positive. I have so much admiration for the NHS here. We have had nothing but kindness and consideration.”

The vaccine is safe and effective for the vast majority of people – it has been tested on thousands of people and assessed by experts. You can find out more about the vaccine and how it works by reading the information from Public Health England which is available on this website: www.westessexccg.nhs.uk/your-health/coronavirus-covid-19

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