The Covid-19 vaccine bus is heading back to South Tyneside this week after more than 300 people got their jabs at the mobile facility last month.
The bus will offer first, second and booster jabs at the junction of King Street and Mile End Road in South Shields on Thursday and Hebburn Central on Friday, both from 10am to 4pm.
Dr Jim Gordon, a local GP and Clinical Director at NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Christmas is coming and it’s so important to get the best possible protection against Covid-19. The booster is now available to everyone over 40, if it’s been six months since your second dose, so we’re expecting to be busy.
“We wanted to bring the vaccine to the people of South Tyneside, and we’ve had a fantastic response. Last month we vaccinated 332 people in just two days.
“There may be some queuing but it’s so convenient to just stroll up off the street – and we have added to our team so that we can help as many people as possible.
“This is the best way to protect yourself and the people around you.”
The team will offer first and second jabs as well as boosters for people who are eligible. On this occasion the bus team will only be able to vaccinate people over the age of 18.
Boosters must be at least 182 days (roughly six months) after your second dose. Details of eligible groups, as well as a calculator to help you check if it’s time for your booster, are available at www.getyourjab.uk.
Under-18s cannot be vaccinated on the bus, but appointments can be booked at www.nhs.uk.
Coun Anne Hetherington, South Tyneside Council’s Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: “With winter upon us and the number of cases still relatively high, it is critical that people get vaccinated. This is vital, not only to protect ourselves and our loved ones, but also to protect our health and social care system.
“With the Melissa bus, it couldn’t be easier. I would urge anyone who hasn’t yet had their vaccine to hop on board the bus and grab a jab.”
Covid Champions will be out and about in the area, directing people to the bus and advising people on how they can get their flu jab.
More than four in every five adults in the borough have had at least two Covid-19 jabs, but if you haven’t had yours yet, you can pop down to the bus, visit www.nhs.uk to book an appointment, or go to www.getyourjab.uk for details of drop-in clinics in South Tyneside.
