Newcastle leading the way on Covid vaccinations – but health care professionals warn against complacency

Front line health care professionals from the Newcastle Liberal Democrats Councillors' group have welcomed news that over 4 million people including 90% of over 80's in North East have received Covid vaccine, as well as all 1600 residents of Newcastle's 50 care homes. But there's still a long way to go to protect the whole population, and they warn against complacency.

Cllr Dr Aidan King (pictured), who has been working nights at the RVI in Newcastle, said : "This is good news. The vaccines are safe and effective. The NHS has locally has done a terrific job, being a country leader and protecting our citizens. But there are many weeks more to go before restrictions can be lifted.

"I've been working as an on-call medical registrar. There are a lot of Covid cases and unfortunately many sad stories, as tens of thousands of new cases are reported nation-wide every day. A great start has been made but we must all do our bit to see the course through."

"We're pleased that those attending the Centre for Life will be able to wait inside and similar arrangements need to be made at the Eagles stadium - it is not good to make over 80s wait in an outside queue," commented Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor, who chairs the Council's Health Scrutiny Committee.

"Despite this hiccup, excellent progress has been made with the over 80s and we are looking forward to the start of vaccinations for over 70's"

Community pharmacist Cllr Ali Avaei said : "The NHS are making great efforts in Newcastle to achieve vaccination targets. As the vaccines become more readily available the NHS will be able to offer Covid vaccines to more people and closer to home such as their local GPs and Community Pharmacies.

"Sadly misconceptions and myths around the vaccination are common. People spreading anti vaccine rumours are putting people's lives in danger especially in most vulnerable communities."