People are being urged to attend their second COVID-19 vaccine appointments, even though they may feel they are already protected.
More than 1.4 million vaccines have been delivered across Cheshire and Merseyside, with around 95% of over 70s having received their first dose.
But as second dose appointments gather pace, people are reminded that they only have maximum protection if they have both doses.
Some people may have experienced mild side-affects with the first dose, however this is a sign that the vaccine is working and triggering your immune response. The possibility of feeling unwell after the second dose is much less common.
The Government has reported that there will be a significant reduction in weekly vaccine supply from the beginning of April for a four-week period. The focus during this period will be on ensuring second doses of the vaccine are delivered and that no one is left behind; teams across Merseyside are looking at innovative schemes to take the vaccine to those individuals and communities that have lower uptake of the vaccine.
It is therefore even more important that people aged 50 and above, health and care workers, those with an underlying health condition that puts them at greater risk and anyone called for a second dose take up the offer now.
The NHS has been inviting those eligible for a jab by letter and text with GPs also calling some patients.
Text invitations appear as an alert from ‘NHSvaccine’ and letters include a web link to click and reserve an appointment at one of more than 300 large-scale vaccination centres or pharmacies across England.
If you are eligible, you can also book or manage your coronavirus vaccination online.
