MORE than 87,500 Borderers have now had their first COVID-19 jag, and more than 68,000 are fully vaccinated.

And NHS Borders are continuing to offer drop-in vaccination clinics for those aged 18 and over who:

• Have not had their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination

• Had their first vaccination dose eight or more weeks ago

Nicky Berry, director of operations at NHS Borders said: “We know that the vaccine is safe and has a positive impact on hospital admissions, reducing transmission and the severity of illness.

"We also know that COVID-19 can affect people of any age, so please protect yourself and your loved ones by coming forward to get vaccinated.

"This also includes coming forward when it is time for your second dose to ensure that you have greater protection against COVID-19.”

No appointment is needed, however, those with a scheduled appointment will be prioritised.

Clinics will be open between 9.30am-1pm and 1.45pm-5.50pm on:

  • Monday 12 July: Volunteer Hall, Galashiels
  • Tuesday 13 July: Volunteer Hall, Galashiels; Hawick Town Hall; Eyemouth Community Centre
  • Wednesday 14 July: Hawick Town Hall; Eyemouth Community Centre; Borders Events Centre, Kelso
  • Thursday 15 July: Hawick Town Hall; Eyemouth Community Centre
  • Friday 16 July: Volunteer Hall, Galashiels; Hawick Town Hall
  • Saturday 17 July: Borders Events Centre, Kelso
  • Sunday 18 July: Borders Events Centre, Kelso

Local resident, John Ballantyne, who is 25, said: “I got the vaccine to help protect myself and my loved ones and to play my part in helping us all move out of this pandemic and back to a more normal life.

"Getting vaccinated was quick and easy and I would encourage anyone who can to come forward.”

Second doses of the vaccine can only be administered eight weeks after receiving the first jag, and patients do not have a choice over which vaccine they receive (these are given based on what is deemed appropriate for your age and circumstances in line with the advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation).

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