So, I got my first COVID-19 vaccine shot…

The UK has been busy starting vaccinating its population against COVID-19. I was recently offered a chance to get immunised. Here are a few thoughts, witterings and such.

How did I qualify to get a vaccination?

Contrary to some people’s thoughts, it’s not because I’m a blogger, a vlogger, social media professional or anything at all like that.

Rather, I was offered one because I’m a working supporting the front-line care services, with staff contact as well as patient contact. As such so, when offered, I took up the option of getting immunised.

I booked online (as that was the instruction) and I was set to get my shot.

What information did I need to book my appointment?

The usual amount of personal information was needed (name, date of birth, etc). However, there is one piece of information that I needed that I didn’t have to hand was my NHS Number. The NHS number is a 10-digit number that helps healthcare staff and service providers identify you correctly and match your details to your health records.

As I did not have this to hand, I contact my GP practice to get it. After validating my identity, I was given it – and I was allowed to book my appointment. 

It is a good idea to keep a note of your NHS number – whilst you won’t need it for treatment, it is more than a good idea to have around. It is a good idea to bring it with you when you go and have your shot – as this information is used to tie the shot information to your patient record.

Where did I have my immunisation?

I went to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham for my first shot, and where I’ll eventually have my booster.

What was the process to get vaccinated?

After arriving at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, I queued up and waited – like a lot few of my colleagues. There were allocated slots where we were expected, with minimal waiting space and waiting.

With my identity verified (along with my staff Identity card), there was a case of shuffling along chairs until it was time for data input and registration. At this point, my details were all confirmed (including my telephone number and NHS number). My second shot date and time was also booked at this point too (with the appointment details sent to my phone).

With that, it was time for the actual vaccination itself. Before it was delivered, I was quizzed on any drugs I’m taking and when my last flu shot was given.

After a few more pieces of data was gathered, I was injected with the vaccine.

I was given a card with everything on it I needed to know.

Once that was done, I was sent to an observation area to be monitored for any immediate side effects. This lasted for 15 minutes (and again, more seat shuffling going along as people arrived and left. 

With that done, it was a case of getting a Uber home. And going back again later because I left my wallet at the centre.

What was I shot with?

Pfizer-BioNTech

Any side effects?

The only side effect I’ve experienced so far is a sore arm for a few days. And probably tiredness, although that’s thought to tell some days

What paperwork was I given?

I was given my immunisation card (as shown above) as well as a leaflet for staff.

The staff immunisation leaflet 

The patient immunisation leaflet. 

I’ve linked both the patient ones and the staff ones, which are published by Public Health England which are being given out when people are being immunised.

The patient one can be found at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/951753/PHE_COVID-19_vaccination_guide_for_older_adults_English_v2.pdf. The staff one is at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/951749/PHE_COVID-19_vaccination_guide_for_healthcare_workers_English_v2.pdf

Are there cases of “Phishing” going around?

Absolutely – there are plenty of cases with people being emailed about an immunisation shot, which is turning into an exercise in gathering information and could lead to cases in fraud.

The COVID-19 vaccine is free of charge on the NHS.

We will never ask for:

❌ your bank account or card details

❌ your pin or banking password

❌ copies of personal documents to prove your identity such as your passport, driving licence, bills or pay slips. pic.twitter.com/fZtLhBAMCp

— NHS (@NHSuk) January 25, 2021

In most cases, your GP will reach out to you when it’s your turn to go for a vaccine. If you get what looks like an invite out of the blue and you’re being asked to enter personal information and/or payment information –  – contact your GP first. They will inform you if its your time for a shot.

Exercise caution, please.

So, am I going gallivanting around the world now I’ve been immunised?

Nope. For now, the UK is under a “stay at home” order. As such, I’m staying put, doing my job and helping the front line deliver care to those who need it.

There is a long way yet before I consider starting travelling again – least of all, there are plenty of new red tape as countries rush to protect themselves, work out their public health stratagies and limit entry into their territories.

For now, there is plenty of work to be done.

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