Portsmouth and Hampshire health leaders thank residents for patience over Covid-19 vaccine rollout after more than 411,000 doses given out

More than 411,000 doses have now been given out across the south east, according to the latest figures from January 10, but despite the effort across the region, leaders have said they understand people's frustrations about waiting for the vaccine.

Dr Tim Cooper, GP and vaccination lead for North Hampshire, said: ‘We understand that many people are very keen to be vaccinated as soon as is possible, and in time a vaccine will be available for everyone.

‘However, at this point we are working our way through the priority groups, as identified by the government scientific advisors.

‘Regrettably, we have to ask people to be patient – we are not holding reserve stocks of the vaccine and so cannot simply add in extra appointments – but everyone will be invited in due course.

‘We absolutely understand that any wait is frustrating, but calling or messaging the practice will not get you an appointment more quickly, and will take our staff away from their other work.’

Dr Linda Collie, clinical leader for NHS Portsmouth CCG, added: ‘Portsmouth primary care networks have done an incredible job of delivering the Covid-19 vaccine to date. It's required a lot of additional effort within a short time frame and as always they've stepped up to help provide the best health outcomes for their patients.

‘We know we've got a long way to go but it's great to have started delivering the vaccine and hopefully begin to turn the tide on Covid-19.

‘I know it's difficult when people are keen for life to return to normal but we need everyone to be patient and wait for their turn.’

Yesterday it was announced that people aged 70 and over and those who are listed as clinically extremely vulnerable will now also start receiving invitations to have the vaccination.

It comes after The News and its sister titles launched its Shot in the Arm campaign calling on the government to utilise the UK’s network of 11,000 pharmacies to help with the Covid-19 vaccine roll out.

SEE ALSO: Six more Covid-19 deaths are reported at QA Hospital as total rises to 593

More than 5,600 people have signed the petition for the campaign, which has also been backed by Portsmouth MP Stephen Morgan, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and former Tory prime minister Tony Blair.

Dr Cooper added: ‘The rollout of the vaccine is undoubtedly a great weapon in our arsenal to fight off Covid-19 – however we must not get complacent and ignore government guidelines.

‘I know people’s spirits will be waning and as the days are colder and darker, it can be a very isolating time. But if we stick to these rules then we will all come out of the other side stronger, better and able to hug our loved ones as much as we want too.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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