Lady Mary Peters gets her COVID-19 vaccine

Lady Mary Peters has received her COVID-19 vaccine from her local GP surgery as part of the Northern Ireland vaccination programme, and has urged others to get it too when called.

Getting the COVID-19 vaccination is the most important thing you can do to help protect your community against serious illness, alongside following public health advice.  When enough people get vaccinated, it’s harder for a disease to spread to those who are most vulnerable.

Lady Mary Peters, who is 81 years old, received her vaccine from GP Dr Andrew Dick from The Hill Medical Group Practice in Dunmurry.

Lady Mary Peters said: “It was the easiest thing getting the vaccine this morning. I had heard all my friends had already had their vaccines and I was waiting for my letter to come, and when the letter did come I couldn’t wait to get here this morning.

“My advice to others is – just do it. Secure yourself and others and let’s end this pandemic.”

In Northern Ireland GPs have begun to vaccinate the 70-plus age group, and will make contact with their patients in this group, meaning people do not need to phone their GP practice. People aged 65-69 can book their appointment online, and will get the vaccine at one of the regional vaccination centres.

Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Work is progressing at pace to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine programme, with over a quarter of a million doses already administered.  However, for it to be as effective as possible, we need everyone to follow Lady Mary’s example and get their vaccine when they become eligible. At present, GPs are vaccinating the over-70s and will invite their patients in this group, while people aged 65-69 are being managed through the regional vaccination centres and can book their slot on the online booking platform.

“As we move through the eligible groups, I would urge people to avail of the opportunity to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it’s their turn.”

Dr Waldron added: “In addition to getting the vaccine, we still need the public to adhere to public health guidance if we are to see a better year than last. Remember the key steps, such as wearing a face covering, maintaining social distancing and washing your hands regularly.”                                                                                    

People aged 65-69 can book their vaccination appointment now at www.covid-19.hscni.net.

To find out more about the vaccination programme see www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/covid-19-vaccination-programme-northern-ireland