Hackney’s vaccination programme “hit a milestone” today as 100,000 residents are now reported to have received their first dose.
The achievement comes despite Hackney having one of the lowest rates of vaccine uptake in the country. It’s mainly due to its young population with 70% of residents aged 40 or under.
“I am so proud that Hackney has reached this milestone in our vaccination programme”. said Mayor of Hackney, Philip Glanville so many people are now fully or partially protected from coronavirus”.
He went on to urge people to book their vaccines saying Covid had “tragically claimed nearly 500 lives so far in Hackney”.
To try and boost uptake in the borough the NHS has announced it will be providing walk in centres for the over 40s in Dalston over the next few weeks.
Covid-19 walk-in vaccinations taking place TODAY at Gillett Sq, Dalston 11am-5pm
– For people aged 40+
– First doses onlyGet vaccinated and help #KeepHackneySafe
Find out more and see upcoming clinic dates ????https://t.co/SX7sU7hsDx pic.twitter.com/pLkifs7PtT
— Hackney Council (@hackneycouncil) May 26, 2021
“We can’t be complacent…”
Doctor Sandra Husbands, director of public health for the borough said that although she was pleased with the progress, there was still work to be done.
“I am very happy that one in three Hackney residents have managed to have their first vaccine dose already, but we can’t be complacent,” she said.
“This still leaves a large number of people to be vaccinated. Also, less than one in five people have had their second dose so far. Having the second dose is crucial to ensure maximum protection from the virus.”
