Grab a jab: Weekend of walk-in vaccine clinics

Vaccine centres in Devon are offering “grab a jab” walk in clinics this weekend, adults of all ages can get their vaccinations without needing an appointment or an NHS number.

As the nation gears up for the removal of Covid restrictions in July, it is more important than ever that people get both doses of their vaccine, to protect themselves and those around them.

The clinics will offer people having their first jab either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.  The walk-in clinics allow people to attend at a time that is convenient for them and means groups of friends can attend together to have their first doses. 

It is also an opportunity for people who missed their second dose of the Astra Zeneca, Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or haven’t got round to booking it, to ensure they are fully vaccinated.

A recent study by Public Health England found that having both doses of the vaccine significantly increased protection against the more transmissible Delta and Beta variants.

People who have had both vaccinations can demonstrate their vaccination status two weeks after their second dose through the NHS COVID Pass. This can be used for travelling abroad to some countries and at a series of event trials in England.

Director of Mass Vaccination and Testing at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Sue Wilkins, said: “This is a perfect opportunity for people who are nervous and need the moral support of friends to have the vaccine together, although please be assured that our staff are always on hand to help anyone who is feeling anxious.

“If you missed your second dose of the vaccine or didn’t get round to booking it, you are also welcome at some of our walk-in clinics.  Having both doses ensures you have maximum protection against the circulating variants.

“When you attend your appointment please be prepared to queue and check social media beforehand; in case the walk-in clinics are full. We recommend you ensure you have eaten beforehand, bring a drink and dress appropriately for the weather.”

The walk-in clinics coincide with Armed Forces Day; an opportunity for the nation to recognise the contribution of the military.

Service personnel have provided support to the NHS in Devon throughout the pandemic; on Covid wards and establishing and staffing both the vaccine programme and NHS Nightingale Hospital Exeter (NHE).

Chantal Baker, former Assistant Director of Nursing for the NHE, said: “We couldn’t have done it without them. Not only did they help to build the site, but over 40 troops arrived at the NHE from January and got to work right away, supporting our teams to care for our patients with COVID-19. They were deeply professional, dedicated and compassionate, and they made a real difference to the lives of our staff, volunteers and patients.  it was a real privilege to work alongside them and we will be forever grateful to all of the service personnel who helped to build, and worked at, our Nightingale.

“I’d like to thank all currently serving troops, Service families, veterans and cadets for all they do, both at home and overseas.”

Details of walk in clinics are as follows:

People can also make appointments for booked clinics online through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.