Worries over low Covid jab uptake in four areas
SOME people are choosing not to have their Covid vaccines in four Burton neighbourhoods, a top councillor has said.
Philip Atkins, former leader of Staffordshire County Council, says takeup has been relatively low in Anglesey, Shobnall, Eton Park and Horninglow – especially among the South Asian community.
All four areas have seen significant coronavirus outbreaks during the pandemic, with Shobnall suffering the highest infection rate in Staffordshire as of last week.
Councillor Atkins said: “Take-up of the vaccine in Burton amongst the four wards of Anglesey, Shobnall, Eton Park and Horninglow is relatively low, especially amongst the South Asian community.
“To encourage more eligible people to take up the offer of a vaccine, a pop-up vaccine clinic will be held at the community centre at Central Jamia Mosque Rizvia on Uxbridge Street, on Friday, March 5, between 2pm and 4pm.
“Eligible people will include residents in a care home for older adults and their carers; frontline health and social care workers; all those 65 years of age and over; adults who have received a letter from the NHS notifying them that they are clinically extremely vulnerable; and people aged over 16 in clinical risk groups. “Take-up is strictly by booking only. Eligible people in these communities are being urged to call Staffordshire County Council on 0300 111 8050 to book their vaccine appointment.
Take-up of the vaccine in Anglesey, Shobnall, Eton Park and Horninglow is relatively low. Philip Atkins
“Appointments must be booked in advance and phonelines will now be open from 9am today and tomorrow only. The cut-off for bookings will be 5pm [today]. No walk-ins will be allowed.”
Mohammed Haroon, chairman of the Burton Welfare Association and the Central Jamia Mosque Rizvia said: “We know that people living in more deprived areas and BAME communities are more at risk from the virus, so it is important that we all continue to do everything we can to protect ourselves, our families and our friends.
“After so much heart-breaking news, we have finally some good news in the form of a safe and effective vaccine which does not contain anything that any religious person or person of no faith should have any concerns about.
“I would urge everyone who is eligible, irrespective of background, to book their vaccine slot, and protect themselves, their families and friends against this virus.”