Latest Covid vaccination rates for Leicestershire and Rutland revealed

New figures released today (Thursday) also show that just over 100,000 vaccinations have been given in this area since the roll-out began on December 8 - with more 40,000 of them in the week to January 17.

The statistics, from the National Immunisation Management Service (NIMS) show that 40,435 of octogenarians have had their first jab, which is 76.6 per cent of the population in that age demographic for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

There is still a way to go with the second dose for those aged 80-plus, however, with only 6.6 per cent having had both jabs in this area.

The figures also show 56,430 aged under 80 in our area have now had their first vaccine dose, which means the total has doubled in the last week.

There are currently no figures available for the number of people who have been vaccinated at the Melton vaccination centre at Melton Sports Village.

The government aims to give at least the first vaccination to everyone in the top four priority groups in the UK by the middle of next month.

A further 50 larger scale hubs have been opened, including one at the Peepul Centre in Leicester, to help meet this target.

Invitations will be sent to everyone eligible for a jab in the early roll-out to priority groups.

There is no longer an option to book a test - the health authority offered a limited number of pre-booked appointments but those have now been filled.

Caroline Trevithick, executive director of nursing, quality and performance for the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Clinical Commissioning Groups said: “Our local NHS staff and volunteers have been doing an amazing job, working around the clock to vaccinate priority groups.

“I would like to urge anyone who meets the criteria for eligible patients to book their Covid vaccination as soon as they are invited.”

Latest vaccination figures for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland released today for the period December 8 to January 24:

1ST DOSE

Under 80s - 56,430;

80+ - 40,435;

76.6 per cent of over 80 population.

2ND DOSE

Under 80s - 2,287;

80+ - 3,475;

6.6 per cent of over 80 population.

Total vaccinations - 102,632

Population estimates for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland:

16-79yrs - 837,942;

80yrs+ - 52,800;

Total 16yrs+ - 890,742.