Over 1,000 Covid and flu vaccinations have been delivered at a series of 11 pop-up clinics in Richmond over the last six months. These were held in various locations as standalone events and as part of other events held to improve the health and wellbeing of local residents.
Over 900 people working or living in the borough took the opportunity to have a Covid vaccination and over 200 took up the offer of a flu vaccination. With both viruses circulating this winter and leaving many people feeling very unwell, or even hospitalised, making it as easy as possible to get a vaccine was the aim of these events, with many people popping in on their lunch break or while they did their shopping.
“I came along today to have a vaccine in two arms! I very efficiently had my flu jab and my Covid booster and I had only waited less than a minute before I was seen. I still think it is important to step up and have a vaccine as we haven’t got rid of either flu or Covid.”
Diane, Richmond resident
Richmond GP and Place Based Partnership Committee Primary Care Development Lead, Dr Nicholas Grundy, said: “Choosing to take up the opportunity of a Covid and or flu vaccination is an important way that people can keep themselves healthy during the winter season and working with our colleagues at Richmond Council, we have made it as convenient as possible for people to get vaccinated.
“We are seeing local health providers placed under huge strain by the numbers of people being admitted with these viruses and the complications they can cause. Unfortunately, winter will be with us a while longer, so I would recommend getting any vaccinations you are eligible for.”
Diane, who works locally, visited a pop-up clinic at York House in October. She said: “I came along today to have a vaccine in two arms! I very efficiently had my flu jab and my Covid booster and I had only waited less than a minute before I was seen. I still think it is important to step up and have a vaccine as we haven’t got rid of either flu or Covid. Today was very, very simple, a one stop shop so I’d say go ahead to anyone else that is eligible for a vaccine.”
Further pop-ups will be held in 2023.