THE daughter of a 93 year-old County Durham woman who was one of the first to receive a Covid vaccine said she can’t understand why anyone would turn down their jab!
Mary Kerr was one of the first pensioners to get the vaccine at the Spennymoor GP Covid vaccination hub when it opened its doors on Friday. (December 18)
Accompanied by her daughter Sandra Shaw, 70, Mary was given her vaccination by clinical pharmacist James McGann.
“Mum has chest problems so she’s been very cautions during the pandemic,” said Sandra. “She had her flu jab and was really keen to get the Covid-19 vaccination as soon as it became available.
“We really need get on top of this virus so I can’t understand why anyone would refuse to have their vaccination – vaccines help reduce diseases all over the world so why would people not have this one?”
325 patients received their vaccination at the Spennymoor hub which, in partnership with five local GP practices, will deliver 975 jabs over the next three days.
All patients receiving the vaccine will be asked to return in 28 days for a follow-up booster dose.
GPs are reminding people not to turn up at a venue for their Covid-19 vaccination until they have received an invitation from their surgery confirming their appointment.
“Mum is really independent and at 93 still lives on her own,” said Sandra.
“My husband and I call in everyday and get her shopping for her but I know that she’d love to go out and do her own shopping – hopefully this vaccine will help that happen and also bring everyone back together again.”
Dr Matthew Shield, lead GP at Oxford Road Surgery, added: “It’s been fantastic to see so many of our 80 year-old plus patients come in for their vaccination today.
“They are the first patients to walk through the surgery doors since the premises were extended and I’m really proud that all our primary care teams have come together to make this happen today.
“It’s been a massive challenge, but also one of proudest moments of my career and it means so much to the patients who are really thankful that the vaccine is now here.”