More than half a million vaccinations have taken place in Lanarkshire since the start of the COVID-19 vaccination programme.
NHS Lanarkshire confirmed this week they have provided over 500,000 first and second doses to local residents.
The lead for the vaccination programme in Lanarkshire, Dr Mark Russell, thanked everyone who has attended so far and the incredible staff who have worked so hard to support the programme.
Speaking to Lanarkshire Live, Dr Russell said: “It is a remarkable milestone to have undertaken more than half a million vaccinations.
“However, a programme of this scale would not have been possible without the willingness of Lanarkshire residents to receive the vaccine and the extremely hard work of NHS staff, and staff from both North Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire Councils.
“The staff have been key in the running of our vaccination centres and have overcome many challenges.
“This has included moving to two supercentres and the work needed to setup and run both these centres, the training of new vaccinators and the flexible working required to provide a seven day a week service. We are extremely grateful to each and everyone who have contributed to the vaccination programme.
“We have made great progress in our vaccination programme and would not have been able to vaccinate at such a pace without our supercentres.”
Dr Russell also confirmed the health board would be “significantly increase the pace” of the programme over the coming weeks.
He added: “This will be possible by maximising our supercentres, so we’re asking for your help – if you can attend your appointment in a supercentre, please do so.
“We know that attending one of our supercentres is not suitable for everyone which is why we have a number of local centres but if the majority of people can attend one of the supercentres this will leave the local centres for those who absolutely need it.
“I would like to thank everyone who has attended for their vaccination appointment. It is important that we all attend for our vaccination and our second dose when we are invited. It’s the most important journey that any of us will make this year.”
