Grab your jab now at Dorset’s winter walk-ins!
Health and care leaders in Dorset are urging local people to grab their jab now, with increased walk-ins available around the county in the drive to get people jabbed before the new year.
Dorset has ramped up its COVID-19 vaccination programme rapidly to offer first, second or booster doses to all adults and children who are eligible – and there are now sites offering walk-ins every day (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day) in the next fortnight.
NHS staff, supported by partners across the health and care system and the Armed Forces, are cracking through booked appointments at an impressive rate meaning more walk-ins can be welcomed at many sites.
In the first week of the ramped-up programme staff vaccinated over 68,000 people, up nearly 62% on the previous week, and they’re ready and waiting to give life-saving doses before and after Christmas weekend.
Dr Andy Rutland, clinical lead for the Dorset vaccination programme, said:
“It’s been an amazing effort by the NHS and its partners to make so many more slots available so quickly. I’d urge anyone who needs a first, second or booster dose not to waste any time and come along to see us at a site near you.”
Even if you have a vaccination booking in January you can attend a walk-in session now instead and be vaccinated earlier.
Dr Rutland added that most people will only experience mild side effects from the jab. He said:
“The majority of people will have nothing more than a slightly sore arm after their vaccination – don’t let that stop you from getting this vital protection as quickly as possible.”
And while vaccination side effects are usually mild, the effects of catching COVID-19, especially with the fast-spreading Omicron strain on the increase, can be much more serious and result in people being hospitalised in the worst cases.
Dawn Dawson, Director of Nursing, Therapies and Quality at Dorset HealthCare, said:
“Getting your vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others from becoming seriously ill with COVID-19. We’d like everyone to go into the New Year with hope and getting your vaccine is an important step towards a safer 2022.”
Both adults and children can take up the walk-in offer – children aged 12-15 can attend the three larger centres at King’s Park Hospital, Bournemouth, Sentinel House, Poole and Vespasian House, Dorchester. They must be accompanied by an adult who can give consent for them to be vaccinated.
You can see all the sites offering walk-ins and when they are available on the Dorset CCG’s website.