Covid vaccination

9th April 21

AZ Oxford and Pfizer vaccines

We have given most people over age 50 or clinically at risk their first vaccine and we’ve made a start on 2nd doses.  If you’re in this group and haven’t had a first dose then please contact the surgery.

If you’re expecting your 2nd dose you can expect to hear from us at about 10-11 weeks after the first dose.

Shortly we will be starting the under 50s although the timing isn’t clear yet.

The vast majority of first doses from now onwards will be AZ Oxford because we’re receiving very little Pfizer. We have had no information about getting Moderna.

There has been publicity this week about the AZ vaccine and possible links between it and blood clots. We want to reassure you the risk, if it exists, is very small. Official NHS advice is as follows:

• Both the MHRA and JCVI advise that adults over 30 and those with underlying health conditions can still be vaccinated with the Astra Zeneca vaccine, as the benefits far outweigh the risks.
• Adults under 30 with no health conditions should be offered an alternative vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna).
• Adults under 30 in cohorts 1-9 who have yet to receive their vaccine (eg unpaid carers, health and social care workers) should be offered an alternative vaccine, if available.
• All those who have received a first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine should continue to be offered a second dose of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, irrespective of age. Only individuals with history of certain types of blood clotting are being advised not to have the second dose.

If you have any queries please contact us, preferably via Patient Triage