Covid 19 vaccine programme stalls at 50+
12th April

The rapid rollout of the vaccination programme has slowed down and appears stuck on 50+ for the time being. This stall is in part due to the fact that second vaccinations are now taking place which is preventing the next group from being called. If you want to find out more it is important not to jam the phone lines of your local surgery.
Since first publication it has now been announced that 45+ age group are invited to book their vaccination.
Instead, you can check quickly online to see the group currently being invited or wait for an invite from your surgery. If you are 50+ and haven’t had your vaccination yet you can check and then book on the same line.
Vaccinations for the under 50s
This first priority group included everyone over 50 and those in vulnerable categories 16+ and key frontline health workers. It is believed that by vaccinating this group it will avoid 99% of avoidable deaths from Covid 19. This group should all have had their first vaccination at least, by April 15th. It is then hoped to start on the younger cohort of adults. Although, those thinking that they will be able to travel on holiday on vaccination passports may need to think again. It is unlikely that there will be enough time to achieve this second large group of first and second vaccinations by August.
The good news is that number of cases of Covid 19 in East Sussex is declining and nationally the death toll has reduced dramatically. However, with the under 50s not yet vaccinated there is no time for complacency as we see the green shoots of freedom from lockdown emerging.
Availability of tests
One thing you can do is make testing a regular part of your regime and free lateral flow quick tests are available to all. You can easily order them online for home delivery ORDER YOUR TESTS HERE These are a monitoring test for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms you should get a PCR test which can be booked online.