Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann has condemned disruption by anti-vaccine protesters at a walk-in clinic for new and expectant mothers.
On Saturday, the Western Trust launched their first vaccination clinic for pregnant women at the Foyle Arena which offered new or expectant mothers the opportunity to get their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
The service was disrupted by who the Health Minister described as "anti-vax crusaders" protesting the decision to vaccinate pregnant women.
The Minister said: “This latest protest is contemptible.
“I want to express my gratitude and solidarity to the vaccination team working at the Foyle Arena today. I am pleased to see pregnant women and new mothers coming forward to get protected through vaccination, in line with expert scientific advice. I would encourage more to do so.
“There is sadly no reasoning with these anti-vax crusaders, who remain wedded to their misinformed and distorted agenda. My message to them is simple – you will not divert us from our responsibility to get as many people vaccinated as possible. Vaccination saves lives and reduces levels of serious illness.
“To people who have not yet got their jab, I say please make an informed choice, based on information from trusted sources. Please don’t miss out on the protection that being vaccinated brings.”
For the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists detailed advice on Covid-19 and pregnancy, click here.
Or for more information on “anti-vax” myths, see the Covid fact file issued by the Department of Health
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