'Don't turn up too early for Covid vaccine' urges Health Minister

Anyone heading to get a Covid-19 vaccine is being urged not to turn up for their appointment too early.

Health and Social Care Minister, David Ashford MHK, has issued the plea after large numbers arrived early for their jab at the Airport Vaccine Hub yesterday, with some getting there up to an hour before their appointment.

This has led to queues forming outside the facility and officials add people have been visiting the hub to view it ahead of getting a jab on a future date.

Mr Ashford says: "It is understandable that people wish to arrive in good time for their vaccination, however I would ask that people arrive no more than 10 minutes ahead of their appointment.  Arriving too early is leading to queues for parking and to enter the hub given the social distancing requirements.

"I understand that people will be anxious and curious, but I would ask the public not to visit the facility ahead of the day of their appointment as this places unnecessary pressure on the surrounding roads and car parking.

"The facility is working as planned and the team have done a fantastic job bringing it online.  We will be making some changes as part of our first day review, which includes exploring options for shelters outside and looking to stagger the numbers of wheelchair access drop offs, however I hope this appeal for people to think about how early they arrive will help rectify the situation."