Getting us out of lockdown and back to a normal life is dependent on a successful vaccination programme. It is great news therefore that the UK vaccinations programme is amongst the best in the world. Indeed, of the large countries it is the best in the world.
There are many factors that led to this success, which has not been without its critics. Decisions like extending the period between first and second doses were heavily criticised at the time, yet this strategy has since been followed by other countries.
The UK population themselves have played a significant role by enthusiastically taking up the offer of a vaccination. The uptake rate has been outstanding, especially amongst the groups most vulnerable to serious illness, hospitalisation and, sadly, death. If you yourself are offered or have been offered a vaccination and have not yet taken up that offer, please do take up the offer as soon as possible.
Here in Croydon the take up rate has been lower than the rest of the UK, and within Croydon there are variations across the Borough. Weekly data published by NHS England gives us a picture.
The finest level of detail reported is by Middle Layer Super Output Area (MSOA). MSOA is a geographical area defined by the Office for National Statistics. In London it contains roughly eight and half thousand people. The boundaries do not in general align with ward or Parliamentary constituency boundaries.
The highest take-up rate at the moment (these data are for up to 18th April 2021) is in Sanderstead where the take-up rate amongst the over 50s, who have all been offered a vaccination, is 91.5%. The lowest is in the area around Croydon University Hospital and Queens Road. As is to be expected the take up rate is higher in the older age groups, who were offered a vaccination earlier. The good news is that in all areas and age groups people are still coming forward to be vaccinated. The figures edge up week by week.
Let’s end by urging all those people who are eligible for a vaccination, but who for whatever reason have yet to take up the offer to please come forward now. There are lots of options. Find out more at the NHS website.
