Posted on: 5 November 2024
Over 300,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have already been delivered as part of the NHS winter campaign in West Yorkshire this year, putting it at the top of the table across the Yorkshire region.
Last week the NHS in West Yorkshire also delivered its milestone 7 millionth COVID-19 jab since the vaccine was first made available back in December 2020.
Whilst the numbers are promising, still 64% of eligible people locally have not yet had their COVID-19 vaccination this year. Medical professionals are now encouraging people to book an appointment as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Dr James Thomas, GP and Medical Director, NHS West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, said: “COVID-19 remains a serious illness for many, so taking your vaccination is vital to prevent serious illness, hospitalisation, and even death. A vaccination helps prevent the spread of COVID-19, protecting you and those in your families and communities who are more vulnerable or cannot be vaccinated.
“As we plan group events, such as Christmas celebrations, or just visiting busy shopping centres and transport hubs, a vaccination can help reduce the spread of COVID-19. There are over 300 places you can get your COVID-19 vaccination in West Yorkshire, so if you’re eligible, you can book your appointment online or through the NHS app, by visiting a participating pharmacy, or by calling 119 for free.”
Over 800,000 people are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination in West Yorkshire, including:
- people aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group
- adults over 65 years old
- pregnant women at all stages of their pregnancy
- care home residents
- frontline NHS and care workers
Almost half a million West Yorkshire people have also received their flu vaccine this year, which can usually be delivered at the same time as the COVID jab.
The COVID-19 vaccination campaign is part of a wider push by the NHS in West Yorkshire to raise awareness and increase the uptake of vaccinations needed at different stages of life, from pregnant women and children to adults and older people.