The first local vaccination services run by GPs have started this week, as the roll out of the biggest vaccination programme in NHS history gains further momentum.
The latest phase of the vaccine roll-out is being delivered by the GP-led primary care network in Lancaster this week, the first clinics started on Wednesday 16 December.
The PfizerBioNTech vaccine, which is being administered to patients over the age of 80, is being delivered at a health and education setting in Lancaster. The patients who were identified as priority groups for the life-saving vaccine have been contacted by their GP surgery to book an appointment.
Margaret Baldwin, 104, from Caton had her vaccination on Tuesday (December 16). She said: “It’s worth having the COVID vaccination and I would very much recommend others getting it as soon as they get the chance.”
Mrs Baldwin who lives on her own has occasionally found herself feeling quite lonely during the pandemic as she hasn’t been able to have as many visitors. She said: “I do my best to keep myself entertained, and it helps that I have three cats who are quite playful. My son and his wife are brilliant as they bring me meals and fill up my fridge – they make sure I don’t go hungry.”
Mrs Baldwin who during World War Two worked in a factory in Heysham producing fuel for airplanes has lived in Caton since 1950. She said: “I live on a cul-de-sac and it’s a lovely little community. I am missing my neighbour, Norma, who went over to visit family in Canada in January and hasn’t been able to come back yet. We write to each other though which is nice. Hopefully, it won’t be long until I see her again.”
Primary care teams have been working rapidly to redesign sites and put in place safe processes to meet the tough logistical challenges of offering the vaccination.
Kirsty Hagan, local GP and Clinical Director of the Lancaster Primary Care Network (PCN) said: “Lancaster PCN consists of two GP surgeries, Lancaster Medical Practice and Queen Square Medical Practice and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have worked together closely.
“I’m happy to say that the delivery of the vaccine has gone really well and our patients who have received it have been very appreciative. Providing the vaccine to this generation of people right before Christmas gives them hope that soon they’ll be able to hug their loved ones.”
The NHS will let people know when it's their turn to have the vaccine. It's important not to contact the NHS for a vaccination before then.
Lancaster MP welcomes government funding for Supa Skips clean up
Fundraiser launched to save Morecambe's longest-running music festival as grant row rumbles on
Man seriously injured after being struck by van on M6 near Lancaster
Furry fundraisers' annual dog walk gives Morecambe charity a £3150 boost
Ceremony to mark 80 years since WW2 airman died after plane crash near Heysham
£1m cannabis factory discovered during police raid in Morecambe
New £250,000 extension at Carnforth swimming pool gets official opening
PHOTOS and INTERVIEWS: Exciting new look inside Eden Project Morecambe revealed at Winter Gardens event
Jackknifed lorry causes M6 travel chaos between Carnforth and Kendal
Council considers £2m bid to bring vacant Morecambe building back to life
Woman dies after falling from motorway bridge near Lancaster
Incredible find 'reunites' Morecambe football hero with winner's medal 50 years after Wembley win
Morecambe rock band to headline tribute concert for Hairy Bikers star
Lancaster nurse whose husband was captured by Taliban hopes to inspire students
Wray Scarecrow Festival starts this weekend
Police bust ‘sophisticated cannabis cultivation’ operation in empty Morecambe town centre building
Beacon lighting and wartime songs in Morecambe to mark 80th anniversary of D-Day
INTERVIEW: Eden Project Morecambe chief expects full funding package by summer and spade in ground by autumn/winter
Morecambe's longest-running music festival under threat in row over council grant
British Empire Medal to be presented to Morecambe band stalwart in prestigious Lancaster Castle ceremony
