More than one million Covid-19 vaccinations given in Leicestershire as Harborough continues to see a big drop in Covid cases

More than one million Covid-19 vaccinations have now been given in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR).

Up to May 30, 1,068,296 first and second doses of the vaccine have been given across LLR, with 75,937 doses given in the past week.

Latest figures show a huge drop in Covid cases in Market Harborough.

After experiencing one of the country's highest increases a few weeks ago, the town's Covid level continues to significantly dip.

Currently, according to the seven days up to May 28, the whole town is still in lowest category of Covid cases.

Caroline Trevithick, deputy chief executive of the LLR clinical commissioning groups, said: “It’s such an achievement to reach this milestone and it’s a moment to reflect on all the work that has gone into this and say thank you to everyone who has helped to deliver the vaccine in our area, as well as the public for coming forward for their vaccine.

“It has been a real joint effort; as well as NHS staff there are hundreds of volunteers involved as vaccinators and in other clinical roles, as administrators, marshals, cleaners and site managers. I would also like to thank those who have organised conversations within their communities to discuss any concerns they have about the vaccine. Every person has enabled us to reach today’s milestone.

“The vaccine is our way out of the restrictions we’ve had on our lives and, with the variant of Covid-19 first identified in India now circulating in our area, we need to build on all the good progress we have made so far with the vaccine and make sure that everyone eligible is protected.”

Last week the pace of vaccinations stepped up locally, with six new drop-in centres set up for people living in specific targeted areas of Leicester City where vaccine take-up has not been as high as other areas.

Outside of the targeted neighbourhoods, vaccines are available for people who live elsewhere in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland via the National Booking Service, the Hospital Hubs and GP practices. These details can be found online at: www.leicestercityccg.nhs.uk/coronavirus-vaccine/

People who are currently eligible for the vaccine across LLR include those aged 30 or over; anyone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of Covid, carers and health and care staff.