Vera is first to receive COVID-19 vaccine at hospital

A 92-year-old from West Pinchbeck was the first person to receive the COVID-19 vaccination at Peterborough City Hospital yesterday.

Vera Chappell had an early morning appointment for a regular injection for her eyesight anyway (Wednesday, December 8) and was asked if she’d also take the new coronavirus vaccine.

She was among four of the initial people to be lined up for the vaccination, but received the injection first and also a round of applause from staff at the hospital.

Her daughter Sue Chappell, also of West Pinchbeck and who runs Glenside Nurseries, said: “She’s had no side effects and is feeling great.

“All the NHS staff were excited to see the vaccinations started and clapped her after having it.”

A spokesperson for Peterborough City Hospital, said yesterday: “Today marks a momentous occasion for our staff and patients and we are looking forward to getting vaccinations underway.”

After months of development and testing, the UK has become the first to ratify the Pfizer vaccine as safe to use. Other vaccines are also in the final stages of testing and development.

The United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust has also been listed as one of 50 hubs for the vaccine.

A spokesperson for the trust said: “The NHS in Lincolnshire welcomes confirmation that a COVID 19 vaccine has been approved for roll out.

“We have been working with partners across the system for many months to prepare for the arrival of the vaccine and we are proud and ready as one of the first hubs to start vaccinations this week.

“We would like to remind people that they should not come to the hospital for a vaccine, we will contact people to arrange an appointment when they need to attend.

“Vaccination is only one step in the fight against COVID 19 and we all still need to remain vigilant and follow the local COVID alert level restrictions.”