January 05, 2022 - 662 views
A plea has been made for people under 40 to come forward and have their Covid jab, after new figures revealed that this age group are more likely to decline the opportunity to do so.
Whilst commenting on progress over the Christmas and New Year period, Doctor Nick Lyons of Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board highlighted the importance in doing so.
"To date we’ve administered more than 374,000 booster jabs, providing important additional protection to 76 per cent of the eligible population. It’s vital that we get many more people vaccinated in the coming days ahead of an anticipated peak in the number of Omicron cases towards the end of this month.
"In common with the rest of the country, take up booster jabs in North Wales is much lower than we would like among those aged under 40. I urge those in this age group come forward without delay."
"It is vital that you get vaccinated in order that you protect yourself and your loved ones, protect the community you live in and reduce the risk of further restrictions in response to COVID."
"Remember, two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine do not offer strong protection against symptomatic infection from the Omicron variant. A booster jab will build your antibodies – providing up to 70 per cent protection."
Doctor Lyons went on to warn about reports about the Omicron variant. He said,
"Don’t be complacent at news that Omicron is a milder form of the COVID-19 virus. Getting your booster will reduce your risk of spreading the virus to those with weakened immune systems, for whom catching COVID-19 could have very serious consequences. Please get your jab today – don’t delay any longer."
"We had the staff in place to administer a booster to all eligible adults before the end of the year, but take up was lower than we would like during the last week of December. We know that many people weren’t able to have their vaccine because they currently have COVID-19 or they have tested positive within the last 28 days.
"Others may have delayed coming forward because of concerns about experiencing side effects over the Christmas period. Remember, side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are usually very mild and not everyone gets them.
"If you’re eligible for your first, second or booster dose, please don’t delay any longer. We have staff ready to vaccinate you at drop-in clinics across North Wales. You can also book an appointment online for some clinics."
