Plans are at an advanced stage to develop a Central Vaccination Centre in Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE).
“We are working with colleagues in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital who are currently operating from the site” an HSE spokesperson told Drogheda Life.
“We expect to deliver up to 1,500 vaccinations per week to members of the public residing in South Louth and East Meath registered on the Portal.
“The Service is being developed in line with the HSE Vaccination Clinic Operating Model and will be delivered as per the rollout plan.
“We hope to commence later this week however this is subject to staffing levels and vaccine supply.”
When it begins the service will mean that people in South Louth and East Meath will no longer have to travel to Dundalk to receive their vaccinations.
The spokesperson said that the addition of the DIFE site will significantly boost the number of vaccines being delivered in County Louth as it will run in addition to the Dundalk Centre which has been operating from the Fairways in Dundalk for a number of weeks.
The vaccination centres in Louth and Meath expect to start vaccinating those aged 55-59 next week, while also vaccinating some cohort 4s which are identified by their hospital team and healthcare workers.
“We would like to thank people for registering for their Covid-19 vaccinations” a spokesperson said. “The HSE is continuing to administer the COVID-19 vaccine in line with supply and appreciates the patience and co-operation of the public as we roll out the vaccine programme.
“You will receive your appointment details by text, 3 to 7 days before your vaccination appointment. However, if appointments become available earlier, then some texts could issue in a shorter timeframe. We are continuously working to reduce the wait times for individuals.
“Vaccination is by appointment only. We would ask people not to go to a vaccination centre without an appointment. People will not be vaccinated if they do not have an appointment and photo ID. Appointments will be spaced out to keep everybody safe. Don’t be late for your appointment. If you do not arrive on time, you will not get your vaccine.”
People should bring their appointment information to the vaccination centre. This will be on your mobile phone or in a letter. You will also need to bring photo ID such as your passport, drivers’ licence, Public Services Card or travel pass.
People will be called for their appointment in line with national prioritization.
If a member of the public has registered on the portal or has queries regarding the vaccination prioritization schedule, they should contact the Covid-19 helpline for advice LoCall 1850 24 1850 or log on to https://www2.hse.ie/screening-and-vaccinations/covid-19-vaccine/rollout/