Melksham hits 60,000 vaccine milestone and first patients gets booster
THERE was double cause for celebration last week as Melksham’s Covid vaccination programme passed the 60,000th jab mark and began delivering booster shots.
The first group of eligible patients received their booster jabs at Spencer Sport and Social Club, which has been home to Melksham’s vaccination programme since it began in December last year.
“It’s been great at Spencer’s here today, I’ve had my Covid booster,” said one patient speaking to Melksham News on the launch day of the booster jab last week.
“I’d encourage anyone who’s had their second jab 6 months ago, to come down to Spencer’s and get their booster.”
The Melksham and Bradford on Avon Primary Care Network (PCN) reports, “Covid vaccinations continue to be delivered at pace at Spencer Sports and Social Club, by Melksham and Bradford on Avon Primary Care Network (PCN).
“We have so far delivered 60,000 vaccinations thanks to our incredible team of clinical and non-clinical volunteers and the support of the Spencer’s committee.
“It’s now time to get going with Covid boosters so we can keep this awful virus away from our community and those most at risk.
“Eligible groups for the booster generally reflect those who would annually receive a flu vaccination. It is only possible to have a Covid booster if 6 months (180 days) have passed since your second dose. Groups eligible include all patients over the age of 50; clinically vulnerable patients over the age of 16; and health and social care workers and unpaid carers.
“We continue to offer first and second doses of the Covid vaccination at all our clinics.
“We also want to encourage any 16-17 year olds to come along and get vaccinated who haven’t already done so. “Our school-aged children aged 12-15 years will be receiving their vaccinations in schools, except the clinically vulnerable who will be contacted by us.
“If you are a patient within the PCN (Giffords, Spa, Bradford on Avon surgeries) you will be contacted by the PCN with an appointment offer for a Covid Booster and a flu vaccination. Please do not ring your surgery, we will be in touch when you are due and have a dedicated team managing this.
“If you are not a patient within the PCN, you can book your Covid booster through the National Booking Service.
“Every clinic we offer includes the option to just walk in and receive a Covid booster. See the ‘grab a jab’ site for clinic dates: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/find-a-walk-in-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-site
“We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our clinics in the coming weeks. Please do not put off getting your booster, as long as its six months since your second dose, now is the time to optimise your protection from Covid-19.”
