Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services
Over 3.7 million doses of the vaccine have been delivered in Wales. We are making excellent progress towards achieving milestone 3 as set out in our Strategy, and we expect to reach this milestone ahead of target.
I am pleased to confirm that 88% of our adult population have had their first dose, and 60% have received their second dose to complete protection against COVID-19. That means 3 in 5 adults are now fully protected.
All health boards in Wales are encouraging anyone aged 18 to 29-year-olds who hasn’t yet, to come forward for vaccination. If you think you have been missed, or have not yet received your offer of vaccination for whatever reason, you can find out who to contact here. It is never too late to arrange an appointment.
As well as making sure no one is left behind for their first dose, we will be focused on offering a second dose to everyone in priority groups one to nine over the next four weeks. That’s everyone over 50, all healthcare workers, social care workers, and other vulnerable groups, including care home residents.
Subject to supply, we will be bringing forward appointments for people over 40 so they don’t have to wait longer than eight weeks between their first and second doses.
We are looking to continue high take up rates for second doses so that everyone benefits from the full protective effect of the vaccine and this is absolutely essential in dealing with this Delta variant. To achieve this, we will need everyone’s help to encourage everyone to come forward and complete their two-dose course. The vaccine is the best way to prevent serious illness and the spread of the disease.
Today I will publish our COVID-19 vaccination programme weekly update. I am immensely proud of our NHS and all the volunteers across Wales whose hard work and dedication makes our progress possible. I am grateful to each and every person who has come forward for their vaccination, helping to keep Wales safe from coronavirus.