Get your jab plea, as covid rates soar

Health chiefs have made the plea as Omicron continues to spread. In the seven days up to January 2, the incident rate was 2,090 per 100,000, equivalent to 6,738 cases, with the rate for the over 60s 1,212 per 100,000, equivalent to 1,017 cases.

People are being asked to get their vaccine, whether it’s their first, second or booster jab as soon as possible.

Vaccine appointments can be booked at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/ or there are a number of walk-in sites open across the borough.

Saltwells Education and Development Centre in Bowling Green Road Dudley is now offering walk-in vaccines as well as by appointment for anyone over the age of 12.

For those over 16, walk-in sites include Wordsley Community Centre, Milan Chemist in Netherton, Wellington Road Community Centre in Dudley, Hindu Cultural (Mata Da Mandir) in King Street Dudley, St Francis Church, in Poplar Road, Dudley and Manor Pharmacy, Manor Way, Halesowen.

For opening times and vaccines offered visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-walk-in-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-site

People can also protect themselves and others by following simple steps such as wearing a face covering, keeping a distance where possible, maintaining good hand hygiene and allowing fresh air in when indoors.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and wellbeing said:

With the New Year a time for making resolutions, I’d ask everyone to make getting their vaccine a priority, whether they’re due their first, second or eligible for their booster jab.

Rates are continuing to rise, so if you are still in need of your vaccine or booster please don’t delay in getting yourself protected.

You can book an appointment online or there are a number of walk-in sites across the borough you can visit.