The vaccination roll out is “moving at pace”, say Melksham’s GP surgeries.
50-54 year olds are being invited for their first vaccination while second vaccinations are now getting underway.
“We are now inviting cohort 9 patients (those aged 50-54) for their first Covid-19 vaccination,” said the Melksham and Bradford on Avon Primary Care Network (PCN)
“We encourage all patients to book via the link in a text message sent to them (from accuBook).
“Anyone in cohorts 8 (55-59) and 9 (50-54) are encouraged not to call us at this present time, the team are working hard ringing patients in this cohort that do not have a mobile number.”
Covid-19 vaccination programme lead for Melksham and Bradford on Avon PCN, Dr Abby Burgess, said, “We are also calling appropriate cohorts for their second vaccination which will be between 77 and 84 days from their first one.
“You will be contacted by text to book online or by a phone call to book your appointment for your first and second vaccination.
“Your second vaccination should take place at the same location as your first vaccination. If you receive invites to other sites for your second vaccination, please wait for us to contact you. We will be in touch and you will not miss out on a second dose.
“Any patients in cohort 1-7 who have not yet received an invitation for a vaccine or who had initially declined and now wishes to take up the offer, you are still very welcome and can obtain an appointment by ringing your local GP Practice.
“The vaccination roll out is moving at pace and nobody will have to wait long. We thank all our patients for their patience. As well as the continued support of the Spencer Club and our wonderful volunteers. Thank you.”
The PCN has also offered reassurance to local cancer patients, following a BBC news story that reported that cancer patients are much less protected against Covid-19 than other people after one dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
The PCN said, “Please advise patients we are continuing with the government’s programme of cohorts and we have received no new guidance as yet regarding bringing the second vaccination appointment forward for our cancer patients. Please advise patients we will of course be in touch should this change.”
The local PCN is known as Melksham & Bradford on Avon Primary Care Network, and consists of the three GP practices Bradford on Avon & Melksham Health Partnership, Giffords Surgery and Spa Medical Practice – together they cover a population of c.48,000 residents. The vaccination programme is being delivered at Spencer Sports and Social Club.
