THERE has been a “dramatic reduction” in those with Covid-19 being admitted to hospital as a result of vaccination, the North of Ireland’s chief scientific adviser has said.
Prof Ian Young was speaking as it emerged that for each 1,000 cases of Covid-19 in the North of Ireland, 22 are currently being admitted to hospital.
That compares with 80 being hospitalised in December.
In the past 24 hours, there have been 1,031 positive cases and eight deaths reported here.
Sadly, two of those deaths were reportred in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.
To date, a total of 2,322,659 vaccines have been administered.
Prof Young said the benefits of vaccination were “indisputable”.
“Clearly, the vaccination programme has made a significant difference,” he said.
“I would again encourage anyone who has not been vaccinated to get the jab. This will help us get through the current surge in cases and any further surges in the autumn and winter.”
The Department of Health said there will be an ongoing programme of walk-in vaccination clinics across Northern Ireland to encourage vaccine uptake.
The first dose uptake rate for adults aged 18 and over is now about 85%.
Part of the drive to boost vaccinations includes the department is publishing a new Covid-19 factfile, aimed at debunking anti-vaccination myths.
“Contrary to ridiculous claims made, they don’t change your DNA, make you magnetic, or let billionaires implant microchips in you. They don’t contain fetal cells. They don’t have any effect on fertility,” the factfile said.
Prof Young added: “The truth is that while vaccination does not entirely eradicate the Covid risk, it reduces it substantially.
“It cuts your risk of getting seriously ill or dying from the virus by around 95% and it reduces your risk of catching or spreading it.”
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