LANCASHIRE and South Cumbria’s clinical vaccination lead has today urged eligible people who have not yet had their Covid-19 jab to come forward without delay.

The call from Jane Scattergood, Covid-19 Vaccination Director for Lancashire and South Cumbria, comes as extra doses arrive in the area next week.

A number of new sites are opening from Tuesday to boost the delivery of the vaccination and additional vaccination first doses have been secured.

Vaccination of residents is according to a priority list, as set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), based on age and vulnerability of people and the risk of them becoming seriously ill and dying from Covid-19.

The current criteria is:

• Aged 38 and over

• Aged 18 and over with any underlying health conditions

• Aged 18 and over AND living, caring or working with anyone with underlying health conditions

• Health and Social Care staff

• Any carers – paid or unpaid. You will not be asked for proof as unpaid carers are eligible.

Jane Scattergood said: “The NHS is working closely with all its partners on a rapid response to the virus in order to protect our residents. We have secured extra vaccines for everyone who is eligible and made it as easy as possible for them to come forward to be vaccinated.

“People will have more opportunities to book their vaccination on a date and a place that suits them, no matter where they live. As long as you are eligible, please come forward and book your vaccine as quickly as you can.

“A huge thank you to all our staff and partners who are working hard on the delivery of the vaccination programme and are helping to protect our residents and their loved ones.”