The North West NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme has reached another huge milestone in its effort to protect people from becoming seriously ill with the virus.

Since the vaccination programme began in December 2020, 15 million vaccines have been delivered across the region, including more than four million top-up jabs (third and booster doses).

NHS staff and volunteers continue to deliver vaccines at more than 300 vaccination sites across the North West, including mass vaccination centres, GP practices, pharmacies and hospital hubs, with pre-booked appointments and walk-in slots available.

The vaccination lead for the North West is celebrating the milestone, whilst encouraging anyone due a vaccine to come forward and make sure they’re protected.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the COVID-19 vaccination programme in the North West, said: “Delivering 15 million doses of the vaccine is a fantastic achievement and I’d like to thank NHS staff, partners  and volunteers for their continued hard work, as well as the millions of people who have come forward to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“It’s never too late to get vaccinated and I’d encourage family members who are due any dose of the vaccine, from children having their first dose to grandparents who are eligible for a spring booster, to come along together to get their vaccine.”

Latest figures also show that 4 million of the total 15 million doses given have been delivered at pharmacy sites across the region, providing the life-saving jab within local communities.

Commenting on this milestone, Pharmacist and CEO of Davey’s Chemist in Liverpool, John Davey, said: “Pharmacy teams have been working throughout the pandemic to help patients with medication and healthcare advice. When we were given the opportunity to support the NHS with the vaccination programme, we adapted our premises and made it work.

“It’s fantastic that pharmacies have delivered 4 million of the 15 million doses across the region. We have a good relationship with our communities and it’s great to know that so many people are using their local pharmacy for things like vaccines.”

Tony McVey, the owner of a demolition company, received all three doses of the vaccine at his local pharmacy along with his family. He said: “I had my first, second and booster jabs at Davey’s Chemist and my son went for his first dose last week. The staff were always friendly and welcoming. My wife has a fear of needles and they help her feel calm.

“We used the walk-in service, which was more convenient for us. We’re busy and I work unusual hours so that, combined with the friendliness of the team, meant we kept going back.”

Following JCVI guidance, the NHS is offering people aged over 75, or over 12 if immunosuppressed, the spring booster vaccine, whilst children aged 5 to 11 are eligible for two paediatric doses of the vaccine. People can check their eligibility on the NHS COVID-19 vaccine page.

To book a vaccination appointment, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/ and to find a local walk-in site, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/find-a-walk-in-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-site/.