MAYOR’S STATEMENT ON COVID VACCINES ROLL OUT IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Published 21 January 2021 at 3:00pm

Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, Dan Jarvis, has provided an update on the COVID situation in South Yorkshire. He said:

“I know people across South Yorkshire will be feeling the strain and weariness of another week of national lockdown and sadly, we have some way to go before restrictions can be eased. However, we can take renewed heart and hope from the progress being made to roll out the vaccine in our region.

“In South Yorkshire, we are on target to have vaccinated the top four priority groups by mid-February, over 280,000 people. It means many of our most vulnerable elderly residents and frontline NHS and social care workers will be protected.

“However, I’m deeply troubled to hear Secretary of State for Health Matt Hancock’s comments in the House of Commons today suggesting progress could be slowed down in our region.

“Our NHS and Primary Care staff are working hard to protect and vaccinate our communities. They must not be punished for their success, otherwise people in Yorkshire will rightly feel this is deeply unfair.  Minsters must pull out all the stops to ensure progress is not derailed and ensure all parts of the country have the resources and supply they need to vaccinate Britain.”

“Vaccinations for the over 80s are currently being administered in over 30 primary care led centres and the region’s hospitals are taking the lead in vaccinating NHS and social care staff. Every jab is another small step on our road to recovery: it is an incredible operation, taking place across South Yorkshire, delivered with the upmost professionalism, skill and dedication of our NHS staff and an army of fantastic volunteers. I’d like to pay tribute to all those involved in this herculean effort.

“While the number of cases is beginning to flatten, pressure on our NHS remains high and growing. 735 people are in hospital in South Yorkshire receiving treatment from COVID. By following the guidance, we can stop this cruel virus spreading and reduce the harm and heartache it inflicts on families.

“I want to thank everyone for following the rules during these trying times. We must continue to do so, in the knowledge there are better days ahead of us.”

People in South Yorkshire are reminded of the following guidance in relation to the vaccine:

• If you are invited to receive your vaccination, please take up the offer. When you have arranged an appointment please turn up for it. Please also remember safe distancing, masks and hand hygiene when you come for your appointment.

• Whilst the vaccine will protect those who have it from being very sick, the virus is still being transmitted. We must all continue to adhere to the Hands, Face, Space guidance and limit contact with others as much as possible to prevent further infections.

• Please don’t call your GP or hospital, when it is your time to be vaccinated we will call you. This is the largest vaccination programme of modern times and we are only a few weeks into it. We have comprehensive plans in place and you will be contacted when it is your time.

• Please do not turn up to a vaccination site or your GP surgery without an appointment. Only those with booked appointments will receive their vaccination, at all sites. Also please do not come early for your appointment as this will impact on social distancing in some centres.