HEALTH bosses have called for vigilance when travelling to and from Covid vaccination sites.

There are currently 20 Covid vaccine sites across Dorset, including GP-led services, pharmacies, and the large vaccination centre at Bournemouth International Centre.

Dr Karen Kirkham, GP and clinical lead for the Dorset Covid-19 programme, said: "It is really important for people to follow the national guidance when travelling to your Covid-19 vaccination, both to protect yourself and those around you from the virus."

People are being asked to, where possible, use their own transport. If you cannot and are relying on someone to give you a lift, use someone from your support bubble.

Travel to a vaccination centre is considered as an essential journey.

If you have to use public transport, or a Covid-secure taxi, residents are urged to stick to guidance on socially distancing, mask wearing and use of sanitisers.

Dr Kirkham said: “We hope this advice will be helpful to those who have been invited for their vaccination and are planning how they will get to their appointment.

“The vaccination roll-out is good news, but more than ever, we all have to continue to do our bit to control the virus and protect those around us.

“GP-led vaccination services are now up and running across Dorset. All of Dorset’s 18 primary care networks are now offering vaccine. These services involve groups of GPs working together as primary care networks to vaccinate the most vulnerable to their collective patients in one location; this means that you may not be vaccinated by your local GP; you may be required to travel to a different site nearby to where you live.

“The large vaccination centre at the Bournemouth International Centre is one of several places people can get their jab – if you already have an appointment through your GP at a local vaccination centre, or at a local hospital hub, please attend that appointment.

"This will prevent wasted appointments that the NHS cannot fill at short notice."

Meanwhile, Dr Nicky Cleave, assistant director of Public Health at Public Health Dorset, said: “It has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm across Dorset for the Covid-19 vaccination programme, with over 110,000 doses administered so far.

"Whilst this is really positive news, we are still seeing high numbers of Covid cases locally so we need to do everything we can to protect those who are more vulnerable.

“Please be assured that safer options will be available for people who are unable to travel and they will still be able to get vaccinated.”

Residents are also reminded they will not be given a vaccination if they turn up speculatively at any vaccination site.

Visit www.dorsetccg.nhs.uk/vaccinations/ for further information about Dorset's Covid-19 vaccination programme