Two new sites have started delivering the Covid-19 vaccine in the borough with council bosses welcoming the latest move in the fight against the deadly virus.

The vaccine is being administered from today at Revival Fires, in Wolverhampton Street just outside Dudley town centre, and Brierley Hill Methodist Church in Bank Street. 

Sedgley’s Northway Medical Centre and Feldon Lane Medical Practice in Halesowen are the other two registered sites at present, with more to be announced in the coming weeks.

Patients aged 80 and above who are mobile will continue be the first to receive the jab at the sites, with the order being decided by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. GPs and other primary care staff will contacting eligible patients to book them in to vaccination clinics. Patients do not need to contact their practice - they will be contacted by the NHS when they are eligible.

Appointments not used for these groups will be used for healthcare workers who are at highest risk of serious illness from COVID-19. All those vaccinated will need a booster jab 21 days later. Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:

"It is fantastic to see two more sites on board to deliver the vaccine for residents in the borough. The NHS will be in touch with people as and when they become eligible for the vaccine via GPs, healthcare professionals and employers, and when you are invited to get yours, I would strongly advise you to have it.

"For now, though, we have to face the fact that Covid-19 is still very much with us. It's incredibly important that people continue to do everything it takes to stop the spread of the virus.

"That means carrying on as we have been - washing your hands regularly, wearing a face covering where required and staying 2m apart from anyone who isn't a member of your household or bubble."

Sally Roberts, Chief Nurse for Black Country and West Birmingham CCGs and STP added:

"It’s great news that the first vaccination services led by Primary Care Networks are now live and able to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to patients across the Black Country and West Birmingham.

"We're working with our GPs and partners to ensure that we can vaccinate those with most need as outlined by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation."

Vaccination is only one step in the fight against coronavirus and we all still need to remain vigilant and follow the local COVID alert level restrictions. For all the latest news on the vaccine, you can visit nhs.uk.