Professor Pirmohamed says that people “will be immune seven days after the second dose” of the vaccine, which requires two doses taken 21 days apart.
“Partial immunity does occur after the first dose and we can see some protection occurring after day 12 of the first dose.”
Dr Raine said that there will be “longer term follow up” on those who are vaccinated. She pays tribute to the “brilliance of science” and the “altruism” of those who have taken part in clinical trials.
Professor Lim says that the prioritisation advice is aimed at maximising benefit from vaccines.
“Whether or not the vaccine itself can be delivered to care homes is obviously an important point and there will be some flexibility in terms of operational constraints”, Prof Lim says. “Every effort should be made to supply vaccine and offer vaccinations to care home residents.
“Whether or not that is actually doable depends on implementation.”
