670,000 Covid vaccinations have been administered in North Wales says Gill Harris, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board.

In the latest update for this month, Mrs. Harris confirmed that North Wales is on course to offer vaccinations to the remaining adult population by the end of July at the latest.

"We have now delivered more than 670,000 vaccinations in North Wales. Despite having to make changes to our plans at short notice in response to revised national guidance, we remain on course to offer vaccinations to the remaining adult population before the end of July.

"Once again we would like to thank our primary care colleagues in GP surgeries, Local Vaccination Centres and community pharmacies, as their expertise and dedication has made this incredible effort possible.

"We know that being responsive has played a key part in us being able to adapt our delivery plans to ensure we can accommodate any changes in national guidance or policy.

"It is important that anyone aged over 40 who has not yet been able to accept an appointment contacts us to arrange one. With lockdown restrictions easing and international travel opening up it is important we have vaccinated as many people as possible to help protect our communities."

Vaccination progress as of the end of 17 May 2021:

672,115 total vaccinations have been administered in North Wales
First dose vaccines – 452,142
Second dose vaccines – 219,973

Mrs. Harris continued. "On Sunday, the UK Government announced that second dose appointments for the COVID-19 vaccination can be brought forward from 12 to 8 weeks for those aged 50 and over in England.

"The Welsh Government recognises that Health Boards already have enough flexibility in terms of their delivery plans and are making good progress in delivering the vaccine. Therefore, delivering first doses remains a priority and subject to availability of vaccine and operational capacity will look to bring forward appointments for second doses where possible.

"Appointments for second doses will continue to be prioritised in terms of age and clinical need.

"The emergence of the Indian variant is a reminder that COVID-19 has not gone away and that it’s really important to take up the offer of vaccination when it is your turn, including getting the second dose when offered."