Covid Vaccine: 91% Of Over 50s Receive First Dose

91% of over 50s in Jersey have received a first Covid-19 vaccine dose.

59,132 doses have been administered altogether, as of Sunday 28 March. Nearly 15,000 people have been given both doses.

More than three-quarters of over 80s have been fully vaccinated - along with 89% of care home residents, 85% of care home staff, and 74% of frontline health workers.

The government says 45 to 49-year-olds will be able to book an appointment for a first dose this month, followed by 40 to 45-year-olds.

More details on when bookings open for Phase 2 of the rollout are due to be given next week.

"Fully vaccinating Islanders against COVID protects them from severe illness and disease if infected, this will have a direct impact on hospitalisation and mortality rates. 

"It is important that Islanders attend appointment times they are offered for second doses unless it is absolutely urgent to change it as the appointments, as we need to ensure that we have the right vaccine available on site at the right time. The vaccination centre is open all weekend over the Easter holidays and we are expecting a busy couple of days giving out first and second doses." - Becky Sherrington, Head of the Vaccination Programme.

84% of islanders who are designated as high-risk have got their first dose along with 76% of islanders classed as being at a moderate risk of becoming ill if they get coronavirus.

54.85 doses have been given out per 100 in the population.

"The news this week on the second dose take up is hugely encouraging as a second dose provides additional protection from infection.  

"We are seeing good progress and I hope these figures offer reassurance to Islanders that our reconnection strategy, alongside the vaccination programme, is keeping people safe from the remaining threat of COVID and its variants. 

"As we move through the stages of reconnection, I remind Islanders to continue following all public health measures while enjoying the easing of restrictions and socialising." - Deputy Richard Renouf, Health Minister.

Islanders aged 50 and above who haven't got their first dose yet can still book online or via the helpline.

If you're aged 50+ you can book your COVID-19 vaccination. Once you have booked your 1st vaccine appointment you will receive a confirmation text and email. You'll receive further reminders before & after your vaccine ensuring you are kept up to date.

▶️ https://t.co/LlQRZaTsxd pic.twitter.com/VQ4cPGaFjK

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) April 1, 2021

Invitations are sent for second jabs.