LEADING figures at Shropshire Council have called on vaccinated residents to continue observing Covid-19 protocols, despite receiving their jabs.

Councillor Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, and Rachel Robinson, director of public health, both appealed to those with the jabs to avoid putting others at risk.

Cllr Carroll admits that while the vaccine project is going well, people must not stop following the rules, in order to help build up immunity.

He said: "The NHS rollout of the vaccination programme marks a significant step forward in the fight against Covid-19.

"The opening of our two large vaccination centres in Shrewsbury and Ludlow means we now have the capacity to vaccinate tends of thousands of more people across the county.

“I know how keen everyone is to get their jab and get back to normal, but for those who have received their first dose, it can take three weeks to build up protection from the virus, and it is not yet known whether people who have had the vaccine can still transmit the virus.

“It’s vital to continue following the rules after being vaccinated, to ensure that you don’t unknowingly pass on the virus to anybody else.

"This is especially important if you are caring for or seeing someone who is clinically extremely vulnerable, over 50 or has an underlying health condition, because you could be putting them at risk of severe illness or even death.”

Residents must continue to stay at home, save for essential journeys only; maintain social distancing measures from those not in your household or support bubble; self-isolat if you’re required to do so and book a test if needed.

Ms Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, added that following the lockdown rules, added to the vaccination programme, will help beat the virus quicker.

She said: “We all want an end to lockdown, so it is now more important than ever that we continue to observe these simple behaviours, to prevent further spread of the virus and protect our communities.

"Remember: just because you’ve had a vaccine, does not mean it is safe for you to socialise.

"We do not yet know whether it will stop you from catching and passing on the virus, but we do expect it to reduce this risk. So, it is still important to follow the guidance in your local area to protect those around you.”