The reality of living with COVID-19 is that the variant is still infectious, and therefore vaccinations remain a priority.
Watford’s case rates currently stand at 544 per 100k, and Three Rivers is at 716 per 100k.
There has been an increase in case rates which are much higher in 25-59 age group and positivity rates are also very high in children due to less testing.
The impact of the ending of restrictions combined with reduced immunity amongst older people has seen a rapid rise in cases and increased hospitalisations.
Spring boosters have begun for those aged over 75 and over, residents in care homes, as well as people aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed.
Over the last week the number of over 16s who have had 3 jabs has increased by around 170 individuals, two thirds of whom were aged between 16 and 39. This is good news, but we still have a long way to go. It’s tempting to think that a booster might not be necessary but it is. Younger people may feel that the risks are lower among their age group so it’s not worth the trouble, but this is simply not true.
Covid-19 vaccination remains the main priority, the booster is especially important and all adults are urged to get boosted now.
Covid-19 vaccination remains the main priority
It is vital that we all get vaccinated with first, second and booster doses, not just to protect ourselves, but also our loved ones and our communities.
Vaccination might not stop you getting infected with COVID-19, but it will stop you getting seriously ill from it. If you are pregnant, you are advised to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Please find your nearest walk-in centre. If you prefer you can also book an appointment online.
1 April Changes
There will be limited free testing available from the 1 April.
- Limited symptomatic testing available for a small number of at-risk groups - the Government will set out further details on which groups will be eligible.
- Free symptomatic testing will remain available to social care staff.
Whilst the ability to test may be reduced, if you are feeling unwell and want to protect those you come into contact with, regardless of what infection or illness you have, the advice to stay home and don’t go to work still applies. Continuing to be responsible and following the advice and precautions we have got used to through the pandemic will help to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
Please keep visiting the website for updates to find out more about living with COVID-19
Public healthcare advice
Call the vaccine support and advice line on 01923 278 181 for more information and directions to local walk-in clinics. The phone line is open all week days.
If you missed the recent Facebook Live event ‘Let’s talk about Health’ hosted by The Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor you can still watch and listen to advice from your local healthcare professionals.
If your emotional wellbeing or that of a loved one has been affected by COVID, please seek help today. To access this service, contact watfordhealthyhub@hertsmindnetwork.org or call 01923 727 356. If you are in a crisis situation, you can call the free phone number 0800 6444 101 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Find out more by visiting: www.hpft.nhs.uk/get-help
Continue to follow safer behaviours
- Washing your hands.
- Getting your 1st, 2nd or booster vaccination
- Opening the windows and letting fresh air in when meeting people indoors.
- Wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, like shopping centres and public transport.
- Staying at home if you feel unwell.
- Take a test if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and avoid other people if you test positive.
Free ArrivaClick transport for COVID-19 vaccines
Don’t forget that you can still get FREE ArrivaClick transport for COVID-19 vaccines in Watford, including your booster jab.
Use the ArrivaClick service to get free transportation to your vaccination appointment. For more information, visit www.travelwatford.com/arrivaclick
The service is easy to book via a simple smartphone app, which can be found by searching ‘ArrivaClick Watford’ in Apple or Google Play stores. If you do not have smartphone access you can call 0345 901 0000 and speak to the dedicated control team.
- Download and sign up to the ‘ArrivaClick Watford’ app.
- Open the app menu, select ‘Promo Codes’ and enter the codes Vaccine1 or Vaccine2 or Booster.
- Plan and book your journey.
- Walk to your collection point as advised by the app and jump on board.
- Show the driver proof of your vaccine appointment booking when prompted.
