NEARLY 40 per cent of all adults within Dumfries and Galloway have now received both their first and second COVID-19 vaccinations.
As a result, these people now have the fullest and longer lasting degree of protection provided by vaccines against the coronavirus.
Interim Director of Public Health Valerie White said: “As tremendous as the progress of our vaccination programme has been, it’s important that everyone continues to follow all the COVID-19 rules as we progress the programme – even if they’ve received both vaccinations.
“This means following the FACTS guidance around use of face coverings, physical distancing and physical distancing.
“For those who have been vaccinated, it also means immediately self-isolating and arranging to be tested if you do develop symptoms of COVID-19 at a later date. There is also a requirement to quarantine after overseas travel irrespective of vaccination, in line with the national directions.
“We’ve seen a fantastic reduction in COVID-19 cases in the region, and vaccination undoubtedly offers the best prospect of a return towards something more like normality – and we’re seeing an easing of restrictions. However, we’re going to be living with the coronavirus for the foreseeable future, and for the short-term at least we all need to continue sticking to the rules.”
As of 21 April, a total of 46,603 second dose vaccinations have taken place within the region. This represents 38.2 per cent of the adult population and means that 53 per cent of all those who have received a first vaccination have also had a second.
Work continues to be focused on the delivery of second dose vaccinations within the 12-week timeframe set out nationally, ahead of the anticipated national availability of COVID-19 vaccine stocks which will assist in the move into Under 50s cohorts. Currently, first dose vaccinations stand at a total of 88,618.
Work has been taking place nationally to scrutinise and assess possible side effects of vaccines being employed to address COVID-19.
Reflecting this, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has been working to ensure that those people who are eligible for vaccines are provided with the latest information and are in a position to provide informed consent. As per national guidance, the under 30s will be provided with the well-established Pfizer vaccine.
As of 8 am on Monday 26 April, a portal allowing unpaid Carers to register to be vaccinated will come to an end. This is because of Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice on the use of alternative vaccines for the under 30s population, and the need to match those Carers under 30 to clinics that are not solely utilising AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine.
From Monday April 26, unpaid Carers are still encouraged to register by telephoning the helpline on 0800 030 8013, but in the interim the portal is available at https://nhsinform.scot/carersregister
The COVID-19 vaccine reduces your chances of developing serious or life-threatening symptoms. NHS Scotland strongly advises that you take the vaccine when it is offered to you.
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