Mass vaccination centre in Athlone opens today

Covid-19 vaccinations will begin today (Tuesday) in the Athlone IT International Arena, which is to be the largest vaccine hub in the Midlands.

Vaccines will be provided to people aged 65 to 69 this week at the Athlone IT centre and at another new centre in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise.

Appointments for people to attend vaccination centres in Tullamore Court Hotel, Offaly; Bloomfield Hotel, Mullingar; and Clonguish GAA Club, Longford will also commence, with these centres expected to open in the coming weeks.

The AstraZeneca vaccine is being provided to people in the 65 to 69 age bracket at the new centres.

"AstraZeneca has been approved for use by both the EMA (European Medicines Agency) and NIAC (National Immunisation Advisory Committee), in keeping with the strictest standards of safety and quality.

"It is recommended for use in people aged over 60 and licensed by regulators," said the HSE.

Commenting on the opening of the Midlands centres in Athlone and Portlaoise, Des O'Flynn, Chief Officer of the Midlands Louth Meath Community Healthcare Organisation, said it was a "positive and welcome step" towards ensuring people can be vaccinated as quickly as possible.

Vaccination is by appointment only, and people are being asked not to go to the new centres without an appointment.

People attending for their appointment must bring their appointment details (on a mobile phone or letter) and a photo ID.

The HSE said appointments "will be spaced out to keep everybody safe."

* For more on the opening of the Athlone vaccine hub, see this week's Westmeath Independent