‘Don’t hesitate to get it’ one man’s experience of the Covid vaccine

The vaccine cannot roll out fast enough for South London residents.  A large portion of the over-80s and frontline workers have now had their first round – but some vulnerable groups including those in their 60s are now starting to get it.

Michael Kilraine, 68, an artist from Devonshire Road, Forest Hill, got a surprise text from his doctor on Sunday – and was able to get turn up the following day to Sydenham Green Health Centre to receive his jab.

His daughter, South London Press reporter LOTTIE KILRAINE, went with him, filmed him receiving the Oxford vaccine and recorded his thoughts.

 

Mr Kilraine (pictured) said: “An unexpected text from my GP inviting me to book an appointment online, was arranged surprisingly quickly and I found myself with a slot booked for the following day.

“Being asthmatic puts me in the high risk category for Covid-19, therefore it was a huge relief to be even offered the vaccine so soon.

“As I am in my 60s but with an underlying health condition, I had expected that I would be offered a vaccine at some point but I thought I would have to wait until possibly as late as March.

“Going to the health centre today proved to be a largely positive experience.

“Although the weather was cold, the appointments were timed so that there was very little time spent queuing outdoors.

“Social distancing was adhered to at all times and, guided by the volunteers, the relatively small queue flowed through the building quickly.

“The atmosphere inside the health centre was very positive and the staff seemed at ease throughout the process.

“The jab itself was completely painless, with no discomfort at all.

“I was given the first dose of the Astrazeneca-Oxford vaccine and I was informed that the second dose would be in four to twelve weeks time.

“So far, I have had no side-effects, although I was warned that there could be some in the next few days – however, I am not worried by this.

“Anyone who has had the flu jab, would find this to be a very similar experience.

“I would certainly recommend that anyone offered the vaccine should not hesitate to take it.”