“Every week brings a new milestone as our COVID 19 vaccination programme continues to grow,” said Dr Paddy Hannigan, Clinical Lead for the vaccination programme.
“We are now protecting more people in a greater variety of settings and we are committed to vaccinating all those in the most vulnerable groups designated by Government by the middle of February.”
As well as the three large community sites, vaccinations are taking place in:
- 23 GP led vaccination centres in clinical and non-clinical setting ranging from sporting venues to factories
- Pharmacy led vaccination centres
- All eligible care homes
- People’s own homes where they are housebound
- Hospitals to vaccinate staff and some patients
Neil Carr, Chief Executive Officer of MPFT and Senior Responsible Officer for the Vaccination Programme, said: “By the middle of last week we had vaccinated more than 191,000 people with many thousands booked in to receive their protection over the weekend.
“We have vaccinated over 93 per cent of patients aged over 80, the most vulnerable group. We have also vaccinated most of those aged 75-79, and we are targeting more aged 70-74 and those with underlying health conditions. No-one will be left behind, and we are committed to vaccinating everyone one in all these groups.”
Leader of Staffordshire County Council, Alan White, said: “Once again, I’d like to thank all those responsible for their tireless work in making this possible. This is another fantastic boost to ensuring all eligible residents and health and care workers can receive their vaccine before the NHS moves on to other priority groups.
“Vaccinating all groups will take some time yet, so my message to the Staffordshire people remains the same: Whether you have had a vaccine or not, please continue to follow the rules and guidance to keep everybody safe. This includes staying at home unless you need to leave for essential reasons, in which case social distancing, wearing face coverings, hand washing and getting tested regularly is vital.”
Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, commented: “I am so pleased this centre is opening its doors to the community and helping with the effort to vaccinate the nation. It’s vital residents are vaccinated as soon as possible so we can get back to doing the things we love. I hope everyone who is invited to be vaccinated jumps at the chance as we can only beat this terrible virus if we all act together to protect our family, friends and wider community.”
Dr Hannigan said: “We need to keep reminding everyone that this is the most ambitious vaccination programme in history and is a marathon not a sprint.