MORE than 240,000 Covid-19 vaccinations have been administered in North Wales.

In the latest update from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) on March 2, the health board revealed they had vaccinated more than 75 per cent of people aged 65-69 (Priority Group 5).

The health board has plans in place to meet the Welsh Government’s target of offering vaccination to Priority Groups 1-9 by April 19, subject to vaccine supplies.

Gill Harris, deputy chief executive, said: "Due to production levels, supplies of vaccine available to all Health Boards are again lower this week, compared to what we received earlier in the programme.

"This week we will receive a total of 35,870 vaccines (16,830 of the Pfizer vaccine and 19,040 AstraZeneca). The Pfizer vaccines will again be used primarily for second doses. We expect to see an increase in AstraZeneca vaccine supply from next week onwards.

"GP surgeries that have vaccinated 80 per cent of their patients aged 65-69 (Priority Group 5) will now begin to offer vaccination to all individuals aged 16-64 years with underlying health conditions (Priority Group 6).

"Following last week’s announcements from the Joint Council for Vaccination and Immunisation and the Welsh Government, people with learning disabilities, severe mental illness and unpaid carers are now included in Priority Group 6.

"We are working with the Welsh Government, Local Authorities and GPs to ensure that this cohort are identified and invited for vaccination in a timely manner.

"Letters are also being sent out to those in Priority Group 7 offering them appointments later this month."

Key achievements

As of March 1 2021:

  • 240,092 Covid-19 vaccines had been administered in North Wales.
  • First dose vaccines – 216,248
  • Second dose vaccines – 23,844
  • Percentage of vaccines administered to individuals in group 5 (65-69): 77 per cent
  • Percentage of vaccines administered to individuals in group 6: 13 per cent

Following a successful pilot in Dwyfor, more community pharmacies across North Wales are now joining the vaccination programme.

Readers are asked not to phone the Vaccination Booking Centre, or their GP practice to book a vaccination appointment, unless they have been asked to do so, or unless they are in one of the age groups invited to phone the health board if they haven’t yet received an appointment.

"We won’t be able to give you an appointment out of turn," Ms Harris said.

"We know that some people do not answer their phones if they do not recognise the number. However if you are in one of the groups currently being vaccinated then we may try to call you to offer you a short notice appointment if one becomes available.

"If you receive an invitation for an appointment but are sure that you do not wish to be vaccinated then please let us know so that we can offer that appointment to somebody else.

"When you attend your vaccination appointment please remember that we want to keep you safe and so strict social distancing rules will be in force. Please do not arrive early, and please bring a face mask. You should also bring photo ID as you may be required to present it.

"Please continue to comply with lockdown rules, observe social distancing, wash your hands and wear face coverings where necessary in order to reduce the risk of infection, protect the NHS and keep each other safe."