DUVET MUSINGS: Gratitude and awe for everyone involved in vaccination process

As I went for my coronavirus vaccination I marvelled how remarkable it is we have moved so quickly to access vaccines and start distributing them in significant numbers.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

I should not have been surprised as we underestimate sometimes the power of science to address past health crises by combination of drugs and vaccinations.

My experience of the vaccination process both before, during and afterwards was one of both gratitude and awe of the professional manner in which it was delivered to the great credit of everyone concerned.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Within minutes of receiving a text from my local health centre, I had accessed an online booking facility and selected a convenient date and time that was available within a few days, which was quickly confirmed by text.

Impressed by everyone staffing the centre, not least the enthusiastic and kind volunteersImpressed by everyone staffing the centre, not least the enthusiastic and kind volunteers
Impressed by everyone staffing the centre, not least the enthusiastic and kind volunteers
Read More
ON THE FRONT LINE: Do we really need a mass vaccination site in Sheffield?

The day before the appointment I was reminded by similar communication.

Wondering how I would react if I had to wait in a long queue at the vaccination centre in pouring rain, so was pleasantly surprised to be ushered immediately into a gazebo, given a wrist band with all my details on it and directed into a small covered waiting area, then after a minute or two to be directed to my vaccinator.

He put me at ease, inputted my details and then fully briefed me on process, asking if I had any questions, and before giving me jab asked me what seemed reassuringly health screening questions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

After administering the vaccination he give me a card recording it as my first dose together with explanatory leaflet and directed me to waiting room where I waited for 15 minutes in social distanced environment.

He also advised me what procedure would apply for the second vaccination.

Feeling okay I left to return home so impressed by everyone staffing the centre, not least the enthusiastic and kind volunteers.

I was expecting some of the well publicised after effects which are common even after flu vaccinations and was so pleased none have appeared.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Indeed even if they had, they are likely to be mild and for me a small price to pay for the reassurance the vaccination gives.

I cannot wait to replicate the process in 12 weeks or so time when the second dose of vaccine will be available and my record card to be completed, which I will carry with pride and a reminder that when our NHS and volunteers are tested they respond in their usual heroic way.

This further motivates me to maintain my discipline as the coronavirus is not yet beat and the vaccine will take some time for it to be comprehensively distributed.

As we receive the vaccines and impressed by the efficiency of those delivering it we are reminded that this work by NHS staff and volunteers are all above their normal duties/lives and we can only hope that by our future resolve we can allow them to return to their normal duties after some well earned recuperation.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

Related topics:

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.