Our Covid-19 Vaccination Programme

 

• The Covid vaccination programme has now started. We are working as a group of practices within Felixstowe to deliver the vaccination programme.

 

• The first group to be vaccinated will be patients over 80 years old using the Pfizer vaccine. We will also start vaccinating care home residents and the housebound.  A huge number of patients will be vaccinated over the coming weeks and the priority list is governed by scientific advise nationally, so please bear with us. We have computer records of those needing to be vaccinated and you will not be missed.

 

What to do when you receive an invitation?

• The Grove Medical Centre will contact you using the registered telephone number from your clinical record and/or a letter.
• Vaccinations will be carried out at The Grove Medical Practice, in Felixstowe.
• We have prepared a list of likely questions with our answers.  Thank you for bearing with us.

COVID Vaccination

Commonly asked Questions and Answers

General questions

 

I have already been vaccinated (e.g. at the hospital) do I need another?

No. Please follow any instructions and decline the invitation.

 

The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of you suffering from COVID-19 disease. It may take time for your body to build up some protection from the first dose of the vaccine so you will still need to continue wearing your mask, washing your hands frequently and following the 2m distance rule.

 

I have already had Covid. Do I need the vaccine?

Even if you have already had coronavirus, you could still get it again. The vaccine will reduce your risk of another infection and the seriousness of your symptoms if you do get it again.

 

I have recently had Covid – what should I do?

If you have recently tested positive for coronavirus – even if you have no symptoms – you should wait until 4 weeks after the date you were tested before getting the vaccine.  After four weeks use your unique booking code to book online.

 

I have had my flu vaccine, do I need the COVID-19 vaccine as well?

The flu vaccine does not protect you from COVID-19. As you are eligible for both vaccines you should have them both, normally separated by at least a week.

 

Can I catch COVID-19 from the vaccine?

You cannot catch COVID-19 from the vaccine but it is possible to have caught COVID-19 and not realise you have the symptoms until after your vaccination appointment.

 

Can I give COVID-19 to anyone, after I have had the vaccine?

The vaccine cannot give you COVID-19 infection and two doses will reduce your chance of becoming seriously ill. We do not yet know whether it will stop you from catching and passing on the virus to others

 

Questions about booking an appointment

 

Where do I have to go for my vaccine?

The Grove Medical Practice, Grove Rd, Felixstowe IP11 9GA. The Grove Medical Centre will contact you, you should not contact them unless you need to cancel or change your appointment.

 

Why is my GP practice not vaccinating as they do the flu?

 

The Pfizer vaccine comes in units of 975 doses, has to be used within three and a half days and is stored at  -70 degrees. This means that we have a smaller number of venues that are able to deliver the vaccine.  

Most GP practices nationally are working collaboratively, within Suffolk either the Suffolk GP Federation or the Grove Medical Centre, are vaccinating most patients. 

 

Can I choose which vaccine to have?

We are being supplied with the Pfizer vaccine for the foreseeable future.  This may change but we have no information about when this might happen.

 

Can my carer be vaccinated at the same time?

Only if they also have received an invitation.

 

What are the hours the Grove is able to vaccinate patients?

This will vary each week, according to when they receive the vaccines.

 

I do not have transport

Please try to arrange transport with family, friends, neighbours or local community groups – this is allowed under Covid lockdown regulations.  Suffolk On Board may be able to help but have very limited availability.  You can access this via https://communities.suffolkonboard.com/my-area/

 

 

Can I bring a friend or relative with me?

You can be transported to the vaccination site by a member of your household or by someone within your support bubble. You can only be accompanied inside the vaccination centre by one person.

 

At your vaccination appointment

 

 

How long will the appointment take?

We anticipate no more than 45 minutes

 

If I feel unwell on the day of my appointment

Do not attend if you feel unwell with symptoms of coronavirus.

If you have a minor illness without a fever please still attend.

If you feel very unwell do not attend until you have fully recovered.

 

Preparing for the vaccination

On the day of your vaccine, wear practical clothing so it’s easy to access your upper arm.  Bear in mind you may need to spend some time queing outside.  

Remember to use the lavatory before attending.

 

What time shall I plan to arrive?

Please arrive at your appointment time.

 

The vaccination

If you have a fear of needles or feel anxious, try to stay calm and let the person giving you your vaccine know. They will be understanding and can support you.

The vaccine will be given as an injection in the upper arm.

You will have been given an appointment for the second dose. Please attend as the second dose completes the course. It's important to get both doses to protect yourself.

 

What symptoms may I experience?

Some patients have reported a sore heavy arm for a day or two and a slight headache.  These symptoms are perfectly normal. Many people experience no after effects.

 

Can I go back to normal activities after having your vaccine?

You should be able to resume activities that are normal for you as long as you feel well. If your arm is particularly sore, you may find heavy lifting difficult. If you feel unwell or very tired you should rest and avoid operating machinery or driving.