Dacorum residents eligible for Covid-19 vaccine urged to book their jab now

Book your jab now – that’s the message for people in Dacorum who are eligible for a Covid-19 vaccine but have yet to have their first dose.

From next week (29 March), fewer appointments will be available for first doses, as the bulk of vaccine supplies will be used to fully vaccinate people who are due their second jab.

People who are aged 50 and over, eligible carers and those in vulnerable groups are being urged to book their vaccination now, either online through the National Booking System, or by calling 119.

Planned vaccinations will continue for the top priority groups during April.

People who already have their vaccine booked or are due their second dose, will still receive their vaccine and should attend their appointments as planned. GPs will continue to contact those most at risk to book their vaccinations and will be working out in the community to boost vaccine take-up.

Everyone who booked their first appointment at a pharmacy or large vaccination centre either using the National Booking System website or by calling 119, should already have an appointment booked for their second dose.

Anyone who had their first vaccination at a GP- led vaccination site will be contacted by their GP practice and given a date for their second appointment.

The call to get vaccines booked, comes as more than 60,000 people in Dacorum have already come forward for their first dose of the vaccine.

Dr Jane Halpin, Chief Executive of the Hertfordshire and West Essex Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: “NHS teams have done an amazing job to roll out the vaccine locally and ensure the smooth running of the programme.

"If you’re aged 50 or older, I would urge you to book your NHS COVID jab now – it’s quick, safe, effective and painless.”

Further information about the vaccination programme across Hertfordshire and west Essex can be found online. This includes information on current eligibility for the vaccine and answers to Frequently Asked Questions.