Health bosses across the Channel Islands have welcome the approval of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine
The head of Jersey's vaccination programme, Becky Sherrington, says
We will update islanders on the roll-out of the Oxford vaccine once it arrives from the UK and is ready for use on-island. Next week we aim to open up bookings for the 80s and over and begin vaccinating them with the Pfizer vaccine. We are waiting for updated JCVI advice, which we expect today, on how this will positively impact on our vaccine roll out.
Becky Sherrington, Head of Jersey's Vaccination Programme Meanwhile, Guernsey's Director of Public Health, Dr Nicola Brink, confirmed that this vaccine - unlike the BioNTech/Pfizer one approved at the beginning of December
The protection afforded by a vaccine gives us real hope that we can see the end of the pandemic. The AstraZeneca vaccine does not require storage at ultra-low temperatures making transport of the vaccine to Alderney and Sark possible.
Dr Nicola Brink, Guernsey's Director of Public Health The island's Health President has taken this opportunity to remind the public that the vaccine is not compulsory.
The vaccination is NOT compulsory. It is entirely voluntary and, if you are offered the vaccine, you must make a decision on whether to have it. Whilst information on vaccines is available on the coronavirus website, you may also wish to speak to a health professional before you make a final decision.
Deputy Al Brouard, President of Health and Social Care
