The vaccine
The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine is safe and effective. It gives you the best protection against coronavirus.
The NHS is giving the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine to people most at risk, and then rolling out to other groups.
The NHS or your GP will contact you to make an appointment when it's your turn to get the vaccine. Please don't call them yet, they will be in touch by phone or letter when needed.
For more information about the vaccine visit NHS.UK
What to expect after your vaccination, includes information in other languages from the NHS
National lockdown restrictions apply. Please stay at home.
You must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to:
- shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
- go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home
- exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
- meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
- seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
- attend education or childcare - for those eligible
Colleges, primary and secondary schools will remain open only for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. All other children will learn remotely until February half term. Early Years settings remain open.
Higher Education provision will remain online until mid February for all except future critical worker courses.
Full restrictions are on the Gov website
Protect yourself and others
There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other
- wash hands - keep washing your hands regularly
- cover face - wear a face covering in enclosed spaces
- make space - stay at least 2 metres apart - or 1 metre with a face covering or other precautions
If you have coronavirus symptoms:
- a high temperature
- a new, continuous cough
- a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste
Get tested and do not leave home for at least 10 days after your test
Testing
Who can get tested and how to order a test
Map of test centres in our borough
Reporting of positive COVID cases within your workforce
If you have a confirmed COVID-19 case within your business, please refer to the Guidance and Action Card for your sector and contact the Health Protection Team on 01702 212497 or email providecommunityaction@southend.gov.uk
Further information about this can be found under the heading "Businesses" further down this page.
Need help?
Contact numbers during this time
Languages
Please see advice on coronavirus in other languages on the Gov website
COVID-19 information is available in different languages and more accessible formats, to ensure no one is forgotten
The NHS in Essex is making sure everyone has access to useful information about COVID-19 and the vaccination programme. A range of materials in different languages including Polish, Romanian and Chinese, along with information in different formats including easy-read leaflets, and video, can be found on the recently launched Essex-wide website. This will help make sure that we reach as many of our diverse communities across Essex as possible.
The information available covers a range of topics including:
- general vaccination advice and guidance
- easy-read information for people with learning difficulties
- resources for people with sensory impairment
- information on why you have to wait for a vaccine and what to expect afterwards
- advice for older adults and pregnant women
- advice for using transport
- key information for migrants
You can access translated and easy-read information by visiting the information and support page.
