June 16, 2021 - 1744 views
The latest health board update for North Wales shows great progress in getting the vaccination out to a high number of people with the pace further quickening in response to a local rise in cases of the more transmittable Delta variant.
Gill Harris, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery said; "We’re continuing to make good progress, with 85 per cent of eligible adults vaccinated with a first dose, and 55 per cent receiving both doses. This includes at least 80 per cent take up among all groups above the age of 40.
"We are currently targeting those aged 30-39 (currently 59 per cent take up) and those aged 18-29 (currently 68 per cent take up) and are continuing to use a variety of communications to encourage our younger citizens to take up the offer of the vaccine.
"We’ve come so far, so quickly, but the speed at which we can all return to normal life could depend on how swiftly we vaccinate the remainder of people in these younger age groups.
"This has become especially important in light of the emergence and continued spread of the delta variant of coronavirus, which is thought to be 60 per cent more transmissible than the previously dominant alpha variant.
"The delta variant is spreading much more quickly amongst people who have not been vaccinated and now accounts for over 90 per cent of new positive coronavirus cases in North Wales.
"A study published in The Lancet revealed that those infected with it are 85 per cent more likely to be admitted to hospital than those with the alpha variant.
"Getting the full protection of both doses of the COVID vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. The risk of hospitalisation from the delta variant falls by around 70 per cent, 28 days after having a second dose.
"Those in younger age groups who feel no personal risk from COVID are reminded that vaccination is the best way to ensure that restrictions are eased and we can all return to normal life. Proof of vaccination may be required to travel on holiday abroad and attend festivals, concerts and sporting events."
To make an online booking for your jab and to find out more about the process of being vaccinated, please visit https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination-information/covid-19-vaccination-online-booking/
