Changes to second round of Covid-19 vaccinations announced in Lancaster and Morecambe

Many residents who were due to receive their second dose of the vaccine this month have had their appointments cancelled and will now receive it 12 weeks after their first dose.

Bay Medical Group - which includes Heysham Primary Care Centre, Morecambe Health Centre, West End Medical Practice, York Bridge Surgery and Westgate Medical Practice - released a statement on January 4 saying that their vaccine appointments scheduled for January 8 and 9 and January 20 and 21 and Morecambe FC have now been rescheduled.

Lancaster Medical Practice also announced a rescheduling of appointments for January 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 20, and Queen Square Medical Practice for January 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.

Both practices are issuing the Pfizer vaccine from Lancaster University's new Health Innovation Campus.A statement from Bay Medical Practice said: "Due to new advice from the UK Chief Medical Officers, we are rescheduling our second coronavirus vaccination appointments at the Mazuma Arena (Morecambe Football club) on 8th & 9th January and 20th & 21st January.

"We are told patients will still be given two doses of the vaccine to get the best long-term protection from the virus but you will still have a significant level of protection at 22 days after you received the first dose.

"The purpose of cancelling is that at this time due to the increasing levels of Covid 19 in our community we need to ensure as many people as possible benefit from the first dose of the vaccine as soon as they can and we will be booking new patients for their first dose into the vaccination clinics this week.

"We will be writing to and calling all patients about the cancellation but please could you make family members and friends aware that their appointment for a second dose is cancelled and ask them not to attend for their appointments this week.

"We will (be) contacting all patients to reschedule their second vaccine appointment when we are able do so.

"It is important to note that even when you have received your vaccine, you must continue to follow government guidance on social distancing and wearing a mask, as well as the additional Tier 4 measures in place in our area.

"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and look forward to seeing you for your second vaccine dose at the right time."

The NHS has said that the latest evidence suggests the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine provides protection for most people for up to three months.

The website states: "As a result of this evidence, when you can have the 2nd dose has changed.

"This is also to make sure as many people can have the vaccine as possible.

"The 2nd dose was previously 21 days after having the 1st dose, but has now changed to 12 weeks after. If you:

have already had your 1st dose and are due to have your 2nd dose before Monday 4 January, keep your appointment

have already had your 1st dose and are due to have your 2nd dose after Monday 4 January, the NHS will contact you about when you'll have your 2nd dose

are due to have your 1st dose after Wednesday 30 December, you'll be given your 2nd dose 12 weeks later."

The NHS is currently offering the COVID-19 vaccine to people most at risk from coronavirus.

The vaccine is being offered in some hospitals and hundreds of local vaccination centres run by GPs.

It's being given to:

some people aged 80 and over who already have a hospital appointment in the next few weeks

people who live or work in care homes

health care workers at high risk.