Wales’ booster army grows as military, GPs and pharmacies commit support

Alongside dedicated NHS staff working in the mass vaccination centres, pharmacies, GPs and army personnel are supporting the rapid rollout of the booster vaccine.

The accelerated booster programme continues to gather pace, with 1.4m booster doses already delivered – almost half of all those aged 12 and over.

This week, a record 53,000 vaccines were delivered in one day – the highest number since the programme was launched just over a year ago.

Wales is on target to offer all eligible adults their booster by the end of the year.

Many people will receive a text message from their health board inviting them to attend a clinic to have their booster. People are also being advised to keep an eye on their health board’s social media and websites for the latest information about clinics.

GP practices across Wales are stepping up again to support the vaccine programme. Practices will be open in the mornings as normal, but many will be running vaccine clinics in the afternoons and some will also run evening and weekend clinics to vaccinate as many people as possible as quickly as possible.

GPs will continue to provide vital care and ensure people with urgent health needs are prioritised.

Pharmacies are also pledging their support to the booster campaign and the Ministry of Defence has allocated 98 personnel. They will make up 14 teams of vaccinators who will provide surge support to increase capacity.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“Once again our NHS, armed forces and dedicated volunteers will be doing all they can to protect us against Covid-19.

“The omicron variant is fast moving and therefore we need to ensure a rapid rollout of the booster vaccine, this can only be achieved through the dedication of everyone involved within the vaccine rollout, their continued commitment is helping to Keep Wales Safe.  I want to thank everyone for the role they’re playing within Team Wales.

“With so much effort to fast-track booster appointments, please support them by being patient and making sure you take up your offer when invited and make having your booster your priority. For those who still haven’t had their first and second dose of the vaccine – it’s never too late. I would urge you to protect yourself. Your health board website will have all the details.”

The vaccine programme also welcomes interest from potential volunteers who would like to join in the huge effort to vaccinate Wales. People can find out more about volunteering by emailing their local health board via the Health Education and Improvement Wales website.