ALMOST 3000 cases of COVID were recorded in Dumfries and Galloway last week – with the massive increase prompting strong calls for everyone to ensure they are as fully vaccinated as possible.
In the week ending Sunday, December 26 there were 872 cases, but in the week ending Sunday January 2 this had increased to a provisional 2825 cases within those seven days.
Close contacts of COVID cases also markedly increased, to stand at 2963.
Valerie White is Director of Public Health, and she said: “Getting fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is now essential, as we can see from the numbers how fast and wide this virus is spreading.
“We are now in a situation where we are very likely to encounter COVID-19 and we know that what provides the best level of defence and the best protection against hospitalisation is being as fully vaccinated as possible.”
Scheduled COVID vaccination clinics and drop-in clinics are running across Dumfries and Galloway, providing jags for any stage of someone’s COVID vaccination journey – including boosters, and second dose jags now down to the age of 12 and above. It is also never too late to get your first dose and start your vaccination journey.
Valerie White said: “Anyone 18 plus attending for their booster must be at least 12 weeks from their second dose and four weeks clear of COVID infection.
“Drop-ins may involve queuing, and there may be no guarantee of supplies, please dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
“In order to guarantee your slot, please book your vaccination by visiting https://vacs.nhs.scot/csp or telephone 0800 030 8013.
“Full details on vaccinations and available drop-in clinics can be found by visiting www.nhsdg.co.uk/vaccines
“Omicron has seen our case numbers rocket, and this big increase lags behind many other areas of the country and that we’ve likely got quite bit of time to go experiencing this degree of transmission.
“Please, start 2022 from the strongest position, ensuring that you are as fully prepared for your encounter with COVID as you possibly can be.”
