Twelve to 15-year-olds can book Covid jabs at large scale centres

Covid-19 vaccines are set to be offered to 12-15 year olds at large scale vaccination centres across Cambridgeshire including in Fenland.

Mike Passfield, clinical operations director for the large scale vaccination centres run by Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust said: “We are pleased to be offering one dose of the vaccine to all 12-15 year olds which will give good protection and help stop the spread of the virus to other people, including within schools.

“In the coming days, it will become possible to book appointments for this age group at the majority of our large scale vaccination centres via the National Booking Services at www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine or by calling 119. Appointments for this age group will be available on Saturdays and Sundays from 8.30am to 4pm and from 4.30pm to 7.30pm on certain evenings at different sites. In addition, during next week (half term October 25 to 31 October), appointments will also be available between 8.30am and 4pm.”

“Vaccinations for 12-15 year olds cannot be accessed on a walk-in basis so please ensure you book an appointment before visiting our centres.

“Alternatively, parents and young people can still choose to access the vaccination programme being delivered in schools by Hertfordshire and East Anglia Community School Aged Immunisation Service.”

Dr Gary Howsam, chair of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Millions of children around the world have had a Covid-19 vaccine – it’s safe and effective and is the single most important step we can take to protect ourselves and those we care about.

“The majority of 12 to 15 year olds are currently being offered one dose of the vaccine to give them the best protection against Covid-19. This includes children who turn 12 on the date of their vaccination.

“However, two doses eight weeks apart will be offered to children where their healthcare professional has identified they have a condition that means they are at high risk from Covid- 19, or if they live with someone who is immunosuppressed.”

“We’re making it as easy as possible for people to get their jab, and consent for 12-15 year olds will be sought in line with national guidelines at their vaccination appointment.

“Our friendly vaccination teams will be happy to answer any questions you have. They can also provide extra support if you are nervous or anxious, just speak to a member of the team at any of our vaccination sites and let them know what you need to feel relaxed and comfortable.”

Before your vaccination, don';t forget to keep hydrated (bring some bottled water with you) and have something to eat before you come.

Appointments are available for children aged 12 to 15 at the Horsefair Shopping Centre, Wisbech Mondays 4.30pm to 7.30pm, Saturdays and Sundays 8.30am to 4pm and next week (half term) 8.30am to 4pm daily.

You can also book appointments for the Queensgate Shopping Centre Thursdays 4.30pm to 7.30pm, Saturday and Sundays 8.30am to 4pm and next week (half term) 8.30am to 4pm daily.

The young person must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when they attend their appointment.