People in Calderdale urged to remember their second COVID-19 vaccination

People need two doses of the vaccine to get the maximum amount of protection and should have their second vaccination 11-12 weeks after their first dose.

Over 10,000 people in the first priority groups have already received their second dose in Calderdale and vaccine is being carefully allocated to make sure everyone gets their second dose at the right time. People who received the first dose of the vaccine through their GP practice will be contacted by their practice when it is time for their second vaccination, while those who used the NHS National Booking Service will have already booked their second appointment.

Dr Fawad Azam, Clinical Director of Calder and Ryburn Primary Care Network says: “Whilst the first dose of the vaccine offers a good level of protection against the disease, evidence from the clinical trials clearly showed that people build up better protection against COVID-19 symptoms when the vaccine is given in two, smaller doses, with an interval between them.

“Having your second dose will ensure you get the maximum level of protection against this awful disease, which has had such severe consequences for people in our local communities. Please make sure you attend when your practice contacts you or keep your appointment if you already have one. If you have booked your appointment through the National Booking Service but need to change it you can easily do this online or by calling 119.”

Janet Burns-Smith, who received her vaccinations through her GP practice, which is part of Calderdale’s Calder and Ryburn Primary Care Network, said: “Both my vaccinations went exceedingly smoothly. The organisation through my doctor’s surgery was excellent. I would heartily recommend having been vaccinated, it being pain-free in my case and with no after-effects.”

People who have had the vaccine are reminded that they still need to follow national Government guidance to protect both themselves and others from COVID-19.