The importance of the booster campaign is clear, and with the vaccination programme now upping in intensity ahead of the new year, I know many constituents are extremely keen to get their jab - which is fantastic.
I thought it would be helpful, if I put together an FAQ to help those in the Wells constituency to ensure everyone who is eligible can book (or walk in) for their jab.
How long do I have to wait between my vaccines?
If you're eligible, you'll be offered a booster dose at least 3 months after you had your 2nd dose.
Most people can:
- book a vaccination appointment online for an appointment at a vaccination centre or pharmacy
- go to a walk-in vaccination site to get vaccinated without needing an appointment
- wait to be contacted by a local NHS service such as a GP surgery and book an appointment with them.
I think it is important to acknowledge that there have - understandably - been some frustrations at the booking system and availability of appointments.
As the Prime Minister said in his address to the nation, there is a mammoth effort ongoing to ensure everyone has been offered a booster by the new year. There is no doubt that this will be hard to hit, but with the amazing NHS and volunteers, I have no doubt it can be done. The booking system is under pressure, but do keep trying different venues, and there are options for walk-in sites across the constituency.
Which Covid-19 vaccine will I get?
Most people will be offered a booster dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine or Moderna vaccine.
This means your booster dose may be different from the vaccines you had for your 1st and 2nd doses.
Some people may be offered a booster dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine if they cannot have the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccine.
It is perfectly safe to mix two vaccines and your GP will let you know if there is a specific reason you should have a specific vaccine.
Will there be more appointments available?
The Army has been drafted in to help with demand, and I am working with them in the MOD to ensure this national effort is as successful as possible.
No 10 has said hundreds more sites, mobile units and pop-ups would be set up across the country including at football stadiums, shopping centres and racecourses in the next week.
We will - of course - keep you updated on these here in the Wells constituency.
