Nikita Hyare talks about COVID 19 vaccines

COVID-19 jabs continue to be a hot topic and a source of some unease, so citizen journalist Karolina Frackowska put some of the most pressing questions to Nikita Hyare, Public Health COVID-19 Response Officer, Haringey Council. 

• What advice would you give to people worried about the vaccine? 

You can rest assured that the vaccines are safe and effective, with over 34 million people across the UK having had the vaccine so far. The vaccines are the best way to reduce your chance of catching COVID-19, which is evident in the decline of COVID-19 cases as more and more people get vaccinated.

The vaccines also reduce the risk of serious illness and death from the virus, which is shown by the reduction of people admitted to hospital with the virus over the last couple of months.  

• What are the main benefits of taking the vaccine? Are there any dangers? 

Taking the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19. The vaccination programme has been very successful in reducing the levels of COVID-19 infection and preventing deaths which has alleviated pressure on the NHS. The more people that are vaccinated, the quicker we can get back to the things and the people that we love.
 
It is common to experience mild, short-term side effects after having your vaccine, such as a sore arm, tiredness, a headache, aches, or sickness, similar to having a mild flu or cold. This is just your immune system kicking into action and shows that the vaccine is working. Vaccines are continuously monitored to detect adverse effects.
 
In regard to concerns about the AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clots, the risk of blood clots is extremely rare, affecting under 8 people in every 1 million. The risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 is much higher so the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the risks.

• Are all UK vaccines available locally? 

As soon as you become eligible for the vaccine you should receive a text from the NHS to book an appointment. You can then book online using the NHS service or by calling 119 for free.

You can also book an appointment via your GP, or at one of your local pharmacies.

By Karolina Frackowska

This remote Q and A session took place on 30 Apr 2021.

For more articles and advice on COVID- 19 including vaccines please visit:

• COVID-19: Latest news, help and support
• Public Health in Haringey
• Community Newsroom