The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulations Agency) and the JCVI (Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation) have announced that, in some rare cases, patients who have received their first dose, consequently had a rare and unlikely to occur thrombosis (blood clot) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). There have been just four in one million cases and since the start of the rollout of the vaccination programme over 30 million people have already received their first dose. However, after considering the risks and benefits of the vaccination, the MHRA and the JCVI have concluded that the benefits of the vaccine for those over 30 years old is far greater than if they contract Covid-19.
For those aged 18 to 30 years, who usually have the lowest consequence of infection from Covid-19 compared to older age groups, the risk versus benefits of the vaccination is slightly different, particularly now that Covid-19 is at moderate and not high levels in this country. Therefore the MHRA and the JVCI have changed the guidance slightly for this age group.
- Second Doses: Those in the 18 to 30 years age group who have already received their first dose of Astra Zeneca Vaccine should have the second dose as planned. There are no concerns about having the second dose for those who did not develop problems after the first dose.
- First Dose: Patients in the 18 to 30 years age group, who have an underlying health condition, that puts them at a higher risk from consequences of Covid-19 infection, can still have Astra Zeneca vaccination for the first dose, following a discussion about the risk and benefits of the vaccination. This discussion can take place at the time of the appointment with the lead clinician on site or beforehand via a telephone consultation. Appointments can be arranged via the appointment hub.
Patients in the 18 to 30 years age group with no underlying health conditions (i.e. health and social care workers, unpaid carers and those who live in the household of immunocompromised patients) will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
- The Moderna vaccine will only be available through Mass Vaccination Centres (i.e. not at North Cotswolds Hospital) and there may be a delay in this becoming available.
- Pfizer vaccinations are available via the local vaccination centre at North Cotswolds Hospital.
- If however, patients still wish to have the Astra Zeneca vaccine, they can have a risk and benefits discussion with a clinician at the vaccination centre. Please telephone the hub to arrange this.
Our appointment hub is open for enquiries (Mon – Fri 10am – 4pm) – 01608 692115.
North Cotswold Primary Care Network Vaccination Hub.