Anyone eligible to receive either a first or second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine has been urged to come along when the NHS vaccine van returns to the Fylde Coast next week.
The van will be parked at locations in Kirkham, St Annes, Fleetwood and Staining throughout the week from 23 August 2021, with people who have not yet received their vaccination welcome to turn up without an appointment and receive a Pfizer vaccine that day.
The local NHS is working with GP practices, local pharmacies as well as Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Councils to provide the service in some key local areas on the Fylde Coast in a bid to ensure as many people as possible are protected against COVID-19.
Jane Scattergood, vaccines director for Lancashire and South Cumbria Health and Care Partnership, said: “We have enjoyed a great uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre, which is great.
“If you live in these areas and have not yet had a dose of COVID-19 vaccine, please go along and get one. It takes a matter of minutes and every vaccine moves us one step closer to a normal life.
“If you are due for your second dose, you can go along and get this as well. It is only once we have had both doses that we are as protected as we possibly can be. If you had your first dose when the van was in St Annes or Fleetwood last time, this is your perfect opportunity to come back.”
Cllr David Henderson, leader of Wyre Council, said: “It’s been great to see so many people taking advantage of the drop-in vaccine clinics that have been run so far. This next session is eight weeks after the first one held back in July so if you came to that, do be sure to fully protect yourself by coming back for your second dose.
“Take up of the vaccine has been really good so far but not everyone has had theirs yet. Infection rates have increased slightly so it’s more important than ever that everyone gets both their vaccines in order to protect themselves and those around them.”
Cllr Karen Buckley, leader of Fylde Council, said: “It is tremendous that vaccines are now available to everyone over 18 and recent news reports have shown just how much enthusiasm there is among young adults to get the jab. It is our route to normal life and young people understand that.
“Although they are less likely to become seriously ill, their lives have been badly affected in terms of social interaction and economic challenges which disproportionately impact upon young adults. As has been said many times, when it’s offered to you please get the jab, and next week it’s even easier as there’s no need to book.
“Please tell your friends, family members and work colleagues. Let’s spread the word and protect each other.”
The van will be available from 10am to 4pm on the following dates and locations:
- Monday 23 August: The Plough car park, Chain Lane, Staining, FY3 0BX
- Wednesday 25 August: St Annes United Reformed Church, St George’s Road, St Annes, FY8 2AE
- Thursday 26 August: YMCA Fleetwood, The Esplanade, FY7 6HF
- Friday 27 August: Mill Street Car Park (near Morrisons), Kirkham, PR4 2AP
For updates, please visit www.fyldecoastccgs.nhs.uk/vaccines-van or check the CCGs Facebook or Twitter accounts @fyldecoastccgs.