NHS Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Group is advising people to get their second dose as soon as they become eligible as it means they no longer need to self-isolate.

From today, Monday,16 August, anyone who has received their final dose of an MHRA-approved vaccine in the UK vaccination programme, at least 14 days prior to contact with a positive case, can avoid self-isolation if they are identified as a close contact of a person who tests positive.

The latest figures show that whilst 95% of Sheffield residents, aged over 80, have received both doses of the covid vaccine only 74% of under 50s have had the second jab.

Alun Windle, Chief Nurse and Covid Vaccination Lead at NHS Sheffield CCG, said: “Getting double jabbed is more important than ever as it’s the only way to keep your freedoms and avoid the disruptions that self-isolating brings to your work and social lives. Under 50s are far more likely to be active and socialising so it’s even more vital they get their second dose. It’s disappointing to see that fewer people in that age group have taken the opportunity for a second vaccine and I would encourage them not to delay any further.

“Two doses also increases your protection against the virus and reduces your chances of becoming seriously ill, and you help others because you are less likely to spread the virus.

“It’s really easy to get your jab as we have walk-in centres that are open every week and you can fit it around your availability.”

The new rules for self-isolation also apply to under 18s and the advice to those who are identified as close contacts, by NHS Test and Trace, is to get a free PCR. test as soon as possible. These can be ordered online, https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test  by calling 119, or going to a test site. For maximum protection the guidelines advise that people get their second dose eight weeks after their first vaccination. 

Alun Windle added: “You are still at risk of being infected if you come into contact with a person who has tested positive for coronavirus. It’s in your best interest to take other precautions such as wearing a face covering enclosed spaces, and limiting contact with other people, especially with anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable. If you start to develop any of the symptoms please get tested immediately and stay in. You should self-isolate and test even if you are double jabbed. It’s better to be cautious and stay safe than run the risk of the virus running rampant in Sheffield and causing harm.”

Information on how to get a vaccine in Sheffield can be found here: https://www.sheffieldccg.nhs.uk/Your-Health/covid-19-vaccine.htm 

Read more about the new changes at gov.uk