New COVID-19 vaccination appointment video

NHS Western Isles has launched a helpful short video on what islanders can expect when they attend for their COVID-19 vaccination appointment in the Outer Hebrides.  

The video, developed to reduce any fears or concerns that individuals may have, shows the entire vaccination appointment process.   

This includes from arrival at a vaccination clinic (either on foot or by car), registering attendance, answering some basic health-related questions, receiving the vaccination and further support, to leaving the clinic’s grounds and the importance of attending for your second dose when invited. 

Whilst filming took place at a vaccination clinic in Stornoway, islanders are assured that the same (or very similar) process is followed, regardless of which vaccination clinic they attend.  This includes signposting and staff/volunteer support, and infection prevention and control procedures to help keep patients safe and protect local NHS staff.  

Additional useful guidance is also featured, such as avoiding arriving too early or late for appointments, attending on your own (where possible), and the use of face masks throughout the attendance.  A reminder to wear loose fitting clothes to allow staff to administer the vaccine to your upper arm also features, as well as the need to continue to follow safety measures and FACTS, even after having had the vaccine.   

The video is available to view on the local Coronavirus website (films section) at (www.coronavirus.wi.nhs.scot or via direct link at: https://vimeo.com/529413146    

NHS Western Isles Head of Communications, Claims and Patient Information, Maggie Jamieson, said: “We hope this video helps to reassure anyone who may have concerns or questions about the vaccination process. We have received excellent feedback from individuals who have attended clinics in the Western Isles and we want to make sure that everyone is aware of the process and is, as far as possible, comfortable about attending their appointment. As demonstrated in the video, the process is quick and straight-forward, and we have staff available at clinics to answer any questions you may have on the day. 

“We would encourage everyone eligible to take the vaccination when offered, and also to ensure they attend both first and second dose appointments, to provide the best level of protection from the vaccine.  

“If you are currently eligible and have not yet received your first dose of the vaccine, please do contact us as soon as possible to make an appointment, on 0808 196 8383 or email wi.covidvax@nhs.scot." 

Current eligible groups are: 

• Anyone aged 40 or over 
• Unpaid carers 
• Those in the 16-64 at risk group. This includes the majority of individuals who are eligible for the flu vaccination, and individuals with a number of other conditions, including:
   
  • Epilepsy  
  • Learning Disabilities  
  • Severe Mental Illness (e.g. schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or any mental illness that causes severe functional impairment)  
  • Coronary Heart Disease  
  • A history of Venous Thromboembolic Disease  
  • Immunosuppression  
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease  
  • Chronic Liver Disease  
  • Renal Disease  
  • Diabetes  
  • Morbid Obesity  
  • Chronic respiratory disease  
  • Chronic kidney disease  
  • Chronic neurological disease  
  • Asplenia or dysfunction of the spleen  

Further details on this eligibility group is available at: Who is being offered the coronavirus vaccine in Scotland | The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine (nhsinform.scot)