First vaccines delivered in Sunderland today as jabs roll out begins in city

From Tuesday, December 15, the city’s first GP-led vaccine centre will be open at the Grindon Lane Primary Care Centre.

The Covid-19 vaccine roll out is the largest ever in NHS history, with Grindon Lane being the first of six GP-led centres opening across Sunderland.

The other five centres, the locations of which are currently unknown, will open as the vaccination programme expands over the coming weeks and months.

Dr Fadi Khalil, Sunderland GP and Medical Director of All Together Better Sunderland, has been leading the co-ordination of the first vaccines coming into the city.

He said: “The arrival of the first Covid-19 vaccine marks a decisive turning point in this global health pandemic and means we can begin to take the first steps on the long road to recovery and look ahead with real hope to the future.

“For many families in Sunderland, Covid-19 has had a devastating impact and the fact that we now have a vaccine is simply incredible and means we can protect those people in our communities who are most vulnerable and at risk.

“If you are aged 80 or over you will hear from us very soon and I would urge you all to take up the offer of the vaccine as soon as possible."

Healthcare leaders are asking for patience as they begin rolling out the vaccine, insisting people need to wait for an invitation from the NHS and not to contact their GP until they receive a letter.

Dr Fadi Khalil added: “The vaccine roll out will be a marathon rather than a sprint for all concerned over the many months ahead and as we head into the New Year.

“The programme will keep expanding as we get access to more vaccine and as more vaccinators are recruited and trained.

“In the meantime, we must all keep adhering to vital social distancing rules, keep wearing our face masks and keep washing our hands regularly.

"These measures continue to be really important over Christmas and into 2021 whilst the vaccine programme expands to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”

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