QEH has announced that it has received its first delivery of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID vaccine and started its vaccination programme on 30 December.
This news comes as the Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine has been approved by the MHRA which is easier to store and will speed up the rollout of vaccinations.
In line with Government policy and consistent with other hospitals,the vast majority of vaccinations administered in this initial phase will be prioritised for those 80 years of age and over, and care home workers.
Commenting on the news, James said “This is a very welcome development and I have worked with the Chief Executive and been pressing the minister leading the vaccine rollout to ensure that QEH had access for priority groups, including frontline staff. With the positive news of the approval today of the Oxford/Astra Zeneca vaccine, we go into the new year able to speed up the rollout.”
Any unfilled appointment slots will be used to vaccinate QEH staff, initially prioritising those considered to be at a higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. All NHS employers have been asked to identify staff who would benefit most – either due to medical conditions or the environment in which they work – so that these staff can be prioritised for vaccinating at this time where not doing so might result in doses going to waste.
The remainder of QEH staff will be invited for their vaccine in due course.
