Get on Board the Bus to Beat Covid

A double decker bus will be in South Shields later this week to offer first, second and booster jabs against Covid-19.

The Melissa (mobile educational learning improving simulation safety and activities) bus will be parked on the crossroads in the town centre where King Street meets Mile End Road this Thursday and Friday (7 and 8 October) between 10am and 4pm.

Anyone attending for a booster jab must be aged over 50 and must have had their second dose of the vaccine on or before the 10 or 11 April.

Covid champions will be out and about to encourage and signpost people to take advantage of the quick and convenient way to access the vaccines. They will also be distributing freebies as well as lateral flow tests.

Councillor Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "I am sure everyone is enjoying the return to a more normal way of life but we cannot afford to let down our guard against Covid.

"All the research shows that the vaccine is the most effective way of controlling the virus and protecting our communities. I would encourage anyone who has not yet had the vaccine to take advantage of this opportunity and hop aboard the bus. It will only take a few minutes but could well save your life."

Staff on the bus will also be able to advise people to go to their GP or their nearest pharmacy where they can have the flu jab.

Local GP Dr John Lloyd is part of the team coordinating the vaccine in South Tyneside.

Dr Lloyd said: "The pandemic has not gone away, and the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and the people you care about. If you haven't had the jab yet, it's never been easier to get protected - just visit www.getyourjab.uk for details of drop-in vaccine clinics right across South Tyneside."