BGS response to COVID-19 vaccine approval

The BGS is pleased to learn that the first vaccine for COVID-19 has been approved for use in the UK and that older people are being prioritised regarding access to the vaccine. Older people have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of the severity of their Covid symptoms and high mortality rates, and also the detrimental effect of lockdown on their physical and mental health. So the arrival of vaccines is very welcome news in helping to protect older people from the risk of Covid infection.

There will be significant logistical challenges to be worked out in the coming days and weeks. We look forward to hearing more details about how the mass vaccination programme will work and how older people, and particularly those in care homes, will access the vaccine. BGS members have been on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic and we know that they will be ready to support the roll-out of the vaccine in hospitals, care homes, GP practices and in the community.