Up to 18,000 Covid jabs a day to be administered locally by a 'vaccination army' say GPs.

Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group (BSW CCG) have said they are 'stepping up efforts' to offer all eligible adults over the age of 18 with Covid-19 booster vaccines before December 31. 

This follows an announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday, December 12, that we are now facing an 'emergency' due to Omicron and booster jabs are the best way to defend against this. 

The CCG's aim is to be able to administer up to 18,000 Covid jabs daily in Bath, North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire. 

In order to achieve this they said Covid vaccination sites in the region will begin extending their opening hours and new vaccine venues will also be looked at.

They emphasised that people are encouraged to pre-book a booster vaccination appointment, rather than arriving at a venue without a confirmed slot.

The CCG's Director of Nursing and Quality Gill May said: “We are pulling out all the stops to ensure we meet the vaccination target announced by the government.

“It is going to be an incredibly busy few weeks, and I ask for people to show their support to our already-stretched vaccine teams by pre-booking appointments wherever possible and treating our staff with kindness and respect.”

This has been reiterated by Salisbury NHS Trust as people came to City Hall for walk-in Covid booster jabs today, despite the site not advertising this. 

A spokesperson from Salisbury NHS Trust said: "The team at Salisbury City Hall Vaccination Centre are urgently looking at ways to increase the centres capacity. 

"There are many factors that the team need to consider but it is hoped that more walk-in sessions will be offered as well as an increase in bookable appointment slots.

"At the moment the centre is working at full capacity which means that at times no appointments show on the National Booking System. 

"If someone is unable to book when they try we would urge them to keep trying as more slots are being added all the time and there are cancellations. 

"At the moment using the booking system remains the best way to get vaccinated.

"Vaccination remains the most effective means to protect yourself, your family and the whole community. 

"Please take up the offer when it's made and get boosted."

Booster appointments can be booked online at www.nhs.uk and over the phone by calling 119.

Sites able to offer walk-in Covid vaccine appointments near you are also on the NHS website.

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