The NHS in the South West has reached a significant milestone, giving 10 million vaccinations in less than a year since the launch of the Covid-19 vaccination programme in the region.

Rachel Pearce, Regional Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the Covid Vaccination programme for NHS England, South West, said the milestone 10 million Covid-19 vaccine mark was reached this week. (Sunday 21 November)

Rachel said: “Since the start of the programme NHS staff in the South West have consistently demonstrated that they will go above and beyond to continue to deliver exceptional care. This commitment has helped provide 10 million Covid vaccines across the South West to enable people to protect themselves, their loved ones, friends and our wider communities.

“Staff and volunteers have been working hard to make sure that those who come forward for their vaccination are looked after in the same caring way we always strive for, and we are immensely grateful for that. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their contribution to this incredible effort.”

“The NHS is currently treating significant numbers of patients across every service. The best way you can help support the NHS is to book your Covid19 vaccination when eligible to give yourself the best chance to stay well this winter. Can I also encourage those who have not come forward for vaccination yet to book – we are still offering first and 2nd doses in addition to booster vaccinations.”

Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said: “Thanks to our hard-working staff and volunteers, it’s wonderful to see us reach another big milestone. The best way people can thank our NHS staff is by coming forward for their vaccination when eligible, protecting themselves and staying well this winter.”

You are eligible to receive your booster vaccine no earlier than 6 months after your second dose. However, to allow you to plan ahead, you can go onto the national booking system to make that appointment from 5 months after your second dose. We would encourage anyone eligible to take this opportunity to book ahead so that you can find a time and place to have your vaccine, that meets your needs.

Over 40
If you are over 40 years old you can now book your Covid-19 third dose or booster by visiting the National Booking System or calling 119, the booking system will become available for you to make the appointment from five months after your second dose.

16 & 17 year olds
Can now book their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine at least 12 weeks after initial vaccination or 12 weeks after having Covid19 infection if this is more recent. This can be booked via the National Booking System or calling 119.

Immunosuppressed
Clinicians have been identifying patients who need a third primary dose due to immunosuppression. The NHS is writing to patients who may be eligible, so they can talk through their options with their GP or consultant if they have not done so already.
The patient should then take the letter from their consultant or GP to a walk-in vaccination site. Vaccinators will not be able to administer the vaccine without this letter. Please visit the NHS website to find a walk in clinic in your area.

Walk in sites are available for all eligible people should they wish to use these services.