THE 'Vaccination Hub' at St Mary’s Hospital on the Isle of Wight has opened its doors to the public and is offering Covid vaccinations to those eligible.

Anyone aged 65 and over, those with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, carers and frontline health and social care workers, will be offered a seasonal Covid-19 vaccine.

People living in care homes are also being prioritised. 

Anyone eligible for a Covid vaccination will be invited to book directly through their GP practice.

Alternatively, people can book using the National Booking Service, the NHS App, or by calling 119.

The Vaccination Hub is open Monday to Thursday, from 7.40am to 5.45pm.

Although the Hub accepts walk-ins, booking an appointment in advance using the National Booking Service is advised to avoid long waits. 

St Mary’s Hospital is unable to provide assistance with queries relating to booking a coronavirus vaccination, or changing vaccination appointments, and the public is asked not to call NHS111 or the hospital switchboard, but to call 119 with their inquiry.

Sue Lightfoot, clinical lead at St Mary’s Vaccination Hub, said: “We know that for some people Covid-19 can cause serious illness, and anyone who is considered at higher risk will be invited to book with their GP practice.  

“It is really important for frontline health and social care workers, carers and anyone who are household contacts of people with immunosuppression, to come forward and have their vaccinations as soon as possible, to protect themselves from becoming unwell and reduce the risk of passing the virus on to others.

“St Mary’s Vaccination Hub gets very busy, so we recommend booking an appointment in advance to avoid having to wait at peak times — and to call 119 if you have any queries about your vaccination.” 

St Mary’s Vaccination Hub is located in the South Block building, opposite the duck pond. Parking is available in the public car park opposite the Main Hospital entrance.

Accessibility parking is available at the back of the Vaccination Hub, and alongside the South Block building. Access is via the old Laidlaw Hospital entrance.

There are a number of changes taking place on the St Mary’s Hospital site as part of the Investing in our Future programme, so please allow more time to park and get to your appointment.