WELLINGTON Medical Centre in Mantle Street is now offering flu vaccine jabs to patients in the 50-64 ‘not in any risk category’, writes Barry Knott.

The centre says: “We have ordered an initial supply that we hope will be delivered by December 11 for a flu clinic to be held afterwards. We are currently processing invitations for 2,144 patients in this age group to attend for vaccination but in the meantime if patients could avoid telephoning us regarding this matter until they receive an invite that will help to control the volume of traffic on the telephones.”

The centre and other providers – that is community pharmacies – have already vaccinated more than 4,700 at risk patients. Those who declined totalled 465.

All patients in the at risk category have been invited for vaccination. The centre adds: “Follow up second invites – letter or text – are nearly complete. We still have vaccines available for at risk patients who wish to have them.”

The centre has an army of volunteers who help with flu vaccinations every year. The vaccination programme is run like a military operation with letters sent out to patients who then have to ring up to make an appointment. Hundreds can be vaccinated on any one day with minimal queuing.

Village school closed

Norton Fitzwarren Church School has been closed this week because of Covid-19.

A number of pupils have tested positive for the virus and several teachers have been self-isolating.

The decision to close was taken on Monday following a meeting between the acting headteacher and health and education representatives.