Dr Jagan John, North East London Clinical Commissioning Group Chair and Clinical Chair for Barking and Dagenham column
We’re going full steam ahead with the Covid-19 vaccination programme in Barking and Dagenham, with our dedicated centres at Broadway Theatre and Parsloes Surgery having vaccinated over 61,000 and 33,000 people respectively! Both teams have been amazing at supporting local people and I must say a special thanks to Parsloes Surgery who have been vaccinating for over six months.
Reassuringly, Public Health England research shows the vaccines are effective against the latest variant of Covid-19, and people who’ve had two doses have high immunity against the virus. So I urge you to get your first jab when you’re contacted and, importantly, don’t forget to have your second dose.
Currently we’re vaccinating everyone aged 18 and over and some at risk younger people, including carers, health and social care staff, and people living with someone who is immunosuppressed. If you had your first dose at Broadway Theatre or Parsloes Surgery, you can book your second dose there by calling 020 8076 4752. You can also book an appointment at www.nhs.uk/CovidVaccine or by calling 119.
I know some people have concerns about the vaccines, so I want to reassure you that they’re safe and effective as they’ve been through rigorous clinical checks. If you have questions you can find more information at www.eastlondonhcp.nhs.uk/ourplans/covid-19-vaccination-programme.htm
Finally, I want to ask a favour of those of you with family or friends who are hesitant to get the jab – please talk to them about their concerns and help them make an informed decision. The sooner we’re all vaccinated, the sooner we can return to normal.
