AS THE clock runs down on Euro 2020 and the government roadmap, joint chiefs across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are getting behind the latest push for people to get their COVID vaccine.
Police chiefs, council leaders and directors of public health are thanking those who have already come forward for their vaccine and are reminding people to book a slot or drop into a clinic before restrictions are eased from 19 July.
More than 1.3 million doses of the COVID vaccine have already been given out by the NHS across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. But more people are needed to come forward to ensure communities are protected.
Chief Constable Simon Cole, who leads on emergency planning for the city, county and Rutland said: “The end is almost in sight for England, but before the final whistle blows we want as many people locally to have booked their first or second jab.
“We want life to get back to normal, as safely as possible. Getting both jabs should be at the top of everyone’s summer check list this year.”
County council leader, Nick Rushton, added: “I want people to enjoy things again safely – especially this weekend. I’d like to thank all those people who’ve taken swift action when they’ve got their text messages and letters about getting a jab.
“It’s the summer holidays now and everyone is keen to get out. Being able to prove your vaccination status will be vital in the months ahead, so don’t miss out because you haven’t had your jab in time.”
Director of public health for Leicester, Professor Ivan Browne, said: “We’ve done everything we can to buy time in Leicester and Leicestershire. People have made sacrifices for well over a year.
“We don’t want to blow all those gains because people haven’t come forward for their second jab yet.”
Earlier this week, local NHS partners released the latest details about where to get a jab.
Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated or is due their second dose is urged to get their jab in the next two weeks, as the local NHS scales up the number of vaccine opportunities ahead of the 19 July.
A drop-in clinic at the King Power stadium on Monday (12 July) and Tuesday (13 July) will be offering the Pfizer vaccine to anyone aged 18 or over. No appointment is needed – simply walk in from 12 noon until 9pm on both days.
As well as adding more drop-in clinics, the Moderna vaccine is also being offered for the first time in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland at the Peepul Centre.
There are three ways to get your jab in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland:
- Use the national booking service at www.nhs.uk or by calling 119 to book at the Peepul Centre, the hospitals, pharmacies and Sturdee Road Health and Wellbeing Centre.
- If your GP practice is offering vaccines, they will contact you to let you know you can book an appointment.
- Or view the latest drop-in clinics at: bit.ly/GetVaxxedLLR or search for #GetVaxxedLLR