Sheffield doctor warns they will ‘do their best’ ahead of looming vaccine shortage

Dr Ollie Hart, clinical director of the Heeley-Plus Primary Care Network, was speaking after it emerged that the amount of new vaccine available in the UK could decline in the coming weeks.

The NHSShef said that there would be a ‘significant reduction’ in weekly supplies of Covid-19 doses available from the week beginning 29 March.

But Dr Hart said that variations in the supply chain of vaccines were nothing new and that medics in Sheffield would still be trying to reach as many people as possible in the shortest possible time.

He said: “It has always been hard to predict more than 2-3 weeks ahead for anything to do with this pandemic and it has been the same with the vaccine supply all the way through.

“The supply chain is clearly unstable as the whole world clamours for vaccines - but we will do our best with what we get.

“Every flu season is the same. We find supply chains are a bit unpredictable and dependent on manufacture and transport logistics.”

Since the vaccine rollout began in December, more than 200,000 people in the city have been vaccinated - over a third of the city’s population.

The programme has been focusing on those aged between 55 and 59 but is now moving on to people aged between 50-54.

If you are 50 and above, you can now book a vaccine by visiting www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination or by calling 119.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.