10 February 2021
Islanders who are clinically at risk (moderate risk) from COVID-19 will receive letters this week inviting them to book their vaccine appointments.
Clinically at-risk Islanders are a specific group of individuals who have additional risks if they become infected with COVID-19. These risk factors have been set out by the Joint Committee of Vaccinations and Immunisations based on strong evidence that certain conditions increase the risk of severe illness or mortality from COVID-19.
Vaccine invite letters will be sent out in three stages, with age being the priority factor. Appointments are dependent on vaccine availability and letters will specify exact dates of when these groups can book their vaccination appointments.
- Moderate risk Islanders aged 55-64: Bookings open and appointments start Monday 15 February
- Moderate risk Islanders aged 45-54: Bookings open and appointments start Monday 22 February
- Moderate risk Islanders aged 16-44: Bookings open and appointments start Wednesday 24 February
Carers (16+), of any elderly or disabled Islanders (of any age), who are receiving a Home Carer’s Allowance or unpaid carers known to their GP or community service, will also receive a letter for their vaccine. This includes young carers and those with moderate health conditions, who are aged 16 and 17 who will be offered the Pfizer vaccine. Carers who are not in contact with a service, should speak to their GP.
Islanders with learning disabilities will also be contacted by the Learning Disability team to receive their vaccine at the day service centre, Le Geyt, over two weekends from 20-21 and 27-28 February as an alternative location.
Head of the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, Becky Sherrington said: “We are working at pace to deliver the vaccine to those who are most vulnerable first. The vaccine supply continues to be our limiting factor to the rate at which we can roll out the programme. Because of this reason, we have divided this moderate group by age range to ensure those most vulnerable are protected as soon as possible.
“There has been extensive work done with Primary care, secondary care services, as well as Customer and Local Services, and charitable organisations to ensure everyone who should be, is captured within this group.
“It is fantastic that a vaccine service will also be available at Le Geyt for Islanders with learning disabilities which is so important in protecting wellbeing during this time of change and uncertainty. I’m also so pleased that we can offer the Pfizer vaccine to our younger carers in the community. Islanders if they choose, can still attend Fort Regent or if appropriate, can book for a home visit.”
Islanders within this moderate risk group and anyone else who is under 70, cannot invite any younger household members to receive the vaccine at the same time, as was available in other tiers, due to the increased number of eligible Islanders in this group and limits to vaccine supply.
Letters will be sent over the next three weeks, If Islanders believe they are at moderate risk but do not receive a letter, they should check the guidance for those at higher risk for advice. If there are still concerns, they are advised to contact their GP.
Islanders can book their vaccination appointment online or by calling the free Coronavirus helpline on 0800 735 5566.
gov.je