Lib Dems concerned over delays in availability of Covid vaccine in Pembrokeshire

After Hywel Dda University Health Board set up two vaccination centres in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion for the first available Covid vaccine (the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine), local Liberal Democrats wrote to the Health Board asking when a centre would be set up in Pembrokeshire? We are concerned that many who are vulnerable to Covid would not be able to get to Carmarthenshire or Ceredigion.

Steve Moore, Chief Executive of Hywel Dda UHB, replied stating that due to the “significant logistical challenges” (ie the cold storage temperature needed) they had “restricted initial delivery to two sites.” They would only provide other centres when the next vaccine – Oxford / Astra Zeneca vaccine – became available as this had less logistical restrictions (ie it can be stored in a normal fridge). This vaccine has not yet been approved although we are told this is imminent.

Alistair Cameron (Welsh Lib Dem Senedd Candidate for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire) said:

“We are still waiting to hear when the Oxford / Astra Zeneca vaccine gets approval. It is therefore disappointing that people in Pembrokeshire who need the vaccination will still have to travel into Carmarthen or Ceredigion in order to get it until the new vaccine becomes available. Many will find it very difficult, if not impossible, to make such a journey.”

Tina Roberts (Welsh Lib Dem Senedd Candidate for Preseli Pembrokeshire) added:-

“We know the virus is spreading around Pembrokeshire and we need to ensure that the most vulnerable people and those in front line health and care work get the vaccination as soon as possible. Everything must be done to get the vaccine delivered in Pembrokeshire.”

Hywel Dda vaccination response