COVID’s still hanging around – let’s get the jab done

With COVID-19 still spreading in our communities there are lots of opportunities to grab whichever jab you need at Dorset’s network of vaccination centres and hubs.

 As well as the King’s Park centre in Bournemouth there are community pharmacies and primary care networks across the county offering vaccinations for anyone who is eligible, whether it’s a first or second dose or a booster.

 You can find out which doses you’re eligible for and when and where you can have them on Dorset HealthCare’s vaccination service web page. That also includes anyone who is eligible for the spring 2022 booster dose.

You can book via the National Booking System or by calling 119 and there are also walk-ins available at some locations. Some sites are bookable through a local booking service, and you may be contacted directly by them if there is one near to you.

Dorset vaccination programme clinical lead Dr Ravin Ramtohal said:

“It may be tempting to let down our guard as we go into the summer, but COVID-19 is still around and still impacting our lives.

“We all want to enjoy the warmer weather and hopefully get a break in the summer - making sure you have your full course of vaccinations will help you to avoid a nasty bout of the virus so you can do all things you want to do.”

Plans are being developed to roll out the autumn booster programme, with eligible groups recently announced by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). More information on the arrangements for Dorset will be available soon.

There are special arrangements to visit residents of care homes for older adults and those who are housebound and eligible for the vaccination - please be patient while heath care workers book everyone in.

Anyone who is severely immunosuppressed and has not had all their vaccinations should have them as soon as possible - you will receive confirmation of your eligibility for the vaccination from either your GP, your specialist doctor or NHS England.