‘Absolutely vital’ to get your second jab

The Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council is reminding people of the importance of ensuring that they receive both jabs and are fully vaccinated against the Covid-19 coronavirus.

It follows recent research by Public Health England which has revealed that the UK’s two main vaccines, the AstraZeneca and the Pfizer, are 33 per cent effective against coronavirus after one dose, and 80 per cent effective after two doses.

We have been repeatedly urging residents not to let their guard down against the coronavirus, and it is now more important than ever to do all that we can to keep our communities safe. No vaccine is 100 per cent effective, and it is still possible to carry the virus without showing any symptoms of it. Even if we have received a jab, we must not make the mistake of thinking that we are somehow immune, and we must not let our guard down. We must not become complacent – the pandemic is not over. If you choose to mix, do it outdoors rather than indoors wherever possible, and remember that the current outdoor limit is 30 people while the indoor limit is six people from six different households.

Stay two metres away from people who are not in your extended household. Try to avoid travelling into areas with high rates of coronavirus, wash your hands regularly, and wear a face covering where required. Self-isolate and get a test if you or anyone in your household develop even mild symptoms, such as a high temperature, a continuous cough or a change in your sense of taste or smell.

When visiting a shop, wear a face covering, use hand sanitiser, observe social distancing and follow any other safety precautions that may be in place. Participate with all track and trace procedures, and plan to holiday at home - only travel overseas if it is absolutely essential to do so.

Council Leader Huw David

Appointment letters are currently being issued to people aged 40-49, but anyone over the age of 18 who has not had their first dose can book themselves an appointment at a local vaccination centre.

To arrange this, call 01443 281163 and select option three – alternatively, visit the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board’s website and fill in the first dose form.

For more information, visit the Covid-19 advice page at the council website.