Healthcare leaders stress importance of Covid-19 second dose vaccine

The NHS is reminding Atherstone residents not to miss appointments as patients begin to receive their second doses of Covid-19 vaccinations.

The second dose acts as a 'booster' jab to enhance immunity to the virus and offer a greater protection against infection.

Many people have questions about when their appointment will be and whether you have to go to the same location as before.

Dr David Spraggett, Kenilworth GP and Chair of South Warwickshire CCG said "It is important that people attend for their second dose vaccination when they are invited to do so.

"While a single dose of the vaccine does provide a good level of protection from the effects of Covid-19, the second dose is very important to ensure the strongest possible protection.

"We are also asking everyone to prioritise attending their second dose appointment, because these are timed in accordance with your first dose to ensure you can receive it within 12 weeks.

"You will need to attend at the same location as your first vaccination (or the location indicated on your appointment confirmation if this has been changed) as the vaccine supply is ordered by where you received your first dose.

"Missing your second dose appointment also means leaving a vacant appointment that could be used for someone else, or could mean the vaccine is potentially wasted."

Dr Sarah Raistrick, Coventry GP and Chair Coventry and Rugby CCG and Warwickshire North CCG said:

"It's important to emphasise that we are working hard to schedule everyone in for their second dose. If you haven't yet received an invitation to attend for your second dose, please don't call your GP surgery or a vaccination centre. You will receive an invite to have your vaccine within 12 weeks and we are asking for your patience as we get everyone booked in.

"If you were given an appointment for your second jab when you attended for your first, please do arrive on the date and time specified. The date for your second jab is specifically aligned with the first dose you received and therefore cannot be changed other than in exceptional circumstances."

Please visit Covid-19 Vaccination - Happy Healthy Lives for more information and frequently asked questions about the vaccine programme.