National Vaccination Update
First doses of a Coronavirus vaccine have now been received by around 37 million people – representing 70% of the adult population – and almost 21 million have been given their second dose.
Following concerns of the current spread of the Indian variant (being fuelled by those refusing a vaccination, according to the Health Secretary) the Government have announced that the gap between first and second doses for the over 50s is being reduced from 12 to 8 weeks. First doses for the over 50s were completed on 12th April so their second jabs are now due to be administered by 7th June.
Over 35s are set to be offered their first vaccine in the coming days and the Government expect to increase daily doses from 500,000 currently to 800,000 by the end of May, putting the country on course eventually for one million first and second jabs a day.
Local Vaccination Update
Pulborough Medical Group are now offering first vaccinations to patients aged 35+ as well as those with underlying health conditions and household members of immune-suppressed patients.
PMG are offering second doses of the Pfizer vaccine to all patients who had their first vaccine in March and second doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine to those who had their first dose prior to 26th March.
For further details, please visit the PMG website here: – https://www.pmgdoctors.co.uk/
Patients at the Arundel Surgery can find the latest update here: – https://arundelsurgery.co.uk/
Roadmap to ease lockdown – Step 3 from 17th May 2021
In last week’s newsletter we provided an overview of the easing of restrictions under Step 3 operative from Monday 17th but did point out that many restrictions relating to social distancing and wearing of face coverings etc. would still remain in force.
The Government’s Notification Service have now published the definitive guidance of what you can and cannot do under the Coronavirus restrictions, covering all aspects and settings such as meeting family and friends, attending businesses, entertainment and hospitality venues, going to school or work and travelling within the UK and abroad along with a host of other aspects and activities relating to everyday life. We do urge you have a look at this publication (in which you will find a link at the end to an Easy Read version) since fines still apply for breaking the rules. The guidance can be found here.
A poster has also been produced which will be displayed on the parish council notice boards – you can also access a copy here.
The 4th and final Step of the Roadmap is scheduled for 21st June but the Government have indicated that the Indian variant “could pose a threat” to the process of deciding whether all remaining lockdown restrictions could be eased on that date.
NHS Test and Trace
In the light of the changes from 17th May the Government have provided an overview of the NHS Test and Trace service including what happens if you test positive for Coronavirus or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive. Full details can be found here:
Stay well and keep safe and if you require help with shopping or prescriptions, please contact
Fr. Peter Mallinson (Bury) 839057 or Ken & Diana Rowsell (West Burton) 831475
