Agenda item

An update on Covid-19 statistics in Enfield and the roll-out of the vaccine.

Glenn Stewart, Assistant Director of Public Health, gave a presentation on the latest position regarding COVID -19 in Enfield. Board Members were asked to note that the data is updated regularly.

1)    It was highlighted that there is a downward trend in infectious cases across London, including Enfield. The ward with the highest number of infectious cases was Haselbury. 29 COVID -19 related deaths had been recorded in Enfield over the previous week.

2)    Over 50,000 first dose vaccines and 3,000 second dose vaccines had been administered to date in Enfield. This was noted as a positive direction of travel

3)    Detail was given on the number of deaths/100,000 people in the borough. It highlighted that the death rate in the Bangladeshi community was high although the number of deaths was relatively low.

4)    Over 600 people have declined a vaccination. This is constantly being reviewed in relation to age and ethnicity. This is more prevalent in the south and east of the borough, areas where most deaths from the virus have occurred.

5)    It was highlighted that it is vital to ensure all ethnic groups are encouraged to have a vaccination. Allowing the virus to thrive within community groups will potentially lead to a further wave of infection.

6)    To discourage vaccine hesitancy, all agencies are working in collaboration, NHS, local authorities, charities and community groups.

7)    Social media posts are being devised in relevant languages to promote take-up.

8)    Accessibility to vaccines for residents with disabilities is being reviewed. A new vaccination hub at Chase Farm Hospital is available for disabled people who can attend with their care as appropriate. Transport provision is also being considered.

The Chair noted that language can be an issue, especially for elderly residents for whom English is not their first language, especially when receiving health related messages. There should be a ward by ward targeting process in place. The Chair asked Board Members for any comments or questions.

9)    In response to a question relating to large numbers of ethnic minority group residents not being registered with a GP, it was confirmed that specific groups are being targeted to improve this situation. A public event is being held on 9 March, with translators available, to help in this area.

10)It was noted that traveller communities and the homeless will receive support to ensure vaccine provision is taken up.

11)It was confirmed that vaccine decliners currently account for less than 1% of those eligible. A higher and more significant number is those who have failed to respond to an invitation to be vaccinated.

12)Multi-agency work would be helpful in reaching out to the homeless, to encourage vaccination.

13)A review of work with short-term tenants would be raised.

14)The eastern corridor, especially Ponders End could be targeted and possibly the mosque could be used as a vaccination centre.

15)In conclusion, Members of the Board noted that language barriers should be removed and vaccinations should be easier and more accessible to all groups.

The Chair thanked Glenn and colleagues for their excellent work to date.