First receivers of Covid-19 vaccinations at St George's Hospital describe their experience

The first Covid-19 vaccinations in the country have began to get underway at St George's Hospital.

St George's is one of 50 hubs in the first wave of hospitals which will started Covid-19 vaccinating today (Tuesday 8th).

People aged 80 and over as well as care home workers will be the first to receive the jab at St George's, along with NHS staff who are at higher risk.

Wimbledon care home worker, Afshan, was one of the first people to vaccinated in the country at St George's this morning.

"I think it's very important to protect myself, to protect the residents I work with, and even my family and anyone else I meet on the street," Afshan told St George's.

"It's a quick painless jab, it doesn't take long."

Like all Trusts, St George's will begin inviting over 80s in for a vaccination, and work with care home providers to book their staff in to vaccination clinics.

The hospital has urged patients to not contact or visit the hospital to seek a vaccine before being contacted first.

GPs and other primary care staff are also being put on standby to start delivering the vaccine.

Theresa, who also had her vaccine this morning, said that she feels 'privileged' to be selected.

"I don't think people should be afraid of the vaccine," Theresa told St George's.

"They should go for it, there's absolutely nothing to it. It's been such an exciting day.

"Everything is very professional and been done professionally."

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