Covid-19 Vaccinations

We understand some people have concerns about the Covid-19 vaccine. Here, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions from the community. You can access spoken word versions of this information by clicking the ‘Listen’ button at the top of your screen.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes, the UK vaccinations have been rigorously tested and meets strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set out by the independent Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Millions of people have now been given a COVID-19 vaccine and reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been very rare. No long-term complications have been reported.

Do I have to pay for the vaccine?

No, the vaccine is free and you do not need to be registered with a GP to receive it.

I’ve heard there is a tracking device in the vaccine and I’m concerned

There is no tracking device in the vaccine. Vaccinations are a well-recognised way of preventing disease.

Is the vaccine safe for the BAME community?

Yes, the vaccine is safe for all members of the BAME community and is particularly important as we know individuals from the BAME community are more susceptible to illness with Covid-19.

Why should I have the vaccine?

Vaccination protects not only yourself but your family and the community around you and will play a crucial part in getting life back to normal, which we all want. You will need two doses of the vaccine to get the best long-term protection from the virus, although you will have a significant level of protection after you received the first dose. However, it is important that you continue to follow national restrictions and social distancing guidance.

Will the vaccines work with new strains of coronavirus?

There is no evidence currently that new strains are resistant to the vaccines we have, so we are continuing to vaccinate people as normal.

I have heard the vaccine affects fertility – is this true?

There is no evidence to suggest Covid-19 vaccinations affect fertility in men or women.

Can I choose which vaccine I have?

Two vaccines are currently available in the UK: Pfizer/BioNTech and Oxford/AstraZeneca. Both have met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness. Supplies are limited and so you will be given whichever vaccine is available at the site you visit.

Does the vaccine contain animal or human content?

There are no meat derivatives or porcine products, including gelatine, in the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine or AstraZeneca vaccine. Both are suitable for Muslims, Vegetarians and Vegans. Some people also believe the vaccine contains human product - this is not true. All ingredients are published in healthcare information on the MHRA’s website.

Is the vaccine suitable for Muslims?

Yes. The vaccine contains no porcine and is suitable for Muslims. Further information about the vaccine for Muslim communities, including information about having the vaccine while fasting, can be found via the Muslim Council of Britain.

Will the vaccine alter my DNA or change my behaviour?

No. The vaccines contain messenger RNA (MrNA) which tells your cells to make the spike protein found on coronavirus. When the immune system recognises this protein it builds an immune response by developing antibodies to fight future infection. The Mrna can not access or change your DNA and will not change your behaviour.

Local Vaccinations

Further information, advice and FAQ's regarding the Covid-19 Vaccination can be found via the Doncaster CCG Website.

Frontline Social Care Staff Vaccinations

For those who have not had their first vaccination yet and are wanting to access this, please contact your local GP practice.

You will still require your letter of eligibility from your employer for your appointment, as well as your workplace ID badge. If you do not have a workplace ID badge you will need your eligibility letter and photo ID. Personal Assistants who have not got their eligibility letter can access this via COVID.Vaccinations@doncaster.gov.uk if you work with Adults and Covid19LOCYP@doncaster.gov.uk if you work with children.

Second vaccinations are being offered to those who have had their first dose in January and to mid- February.

If you had your first dose at either Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw General Hospital or at Almond Tree Court (RDASH), you will be sent a text invitation to coincide with your second vaccination date between 11 and 12 weeks after your first. 

You can find more information via our dedicated Frontline Social Care Staff Vaccination page.

Unpaid and Family Carers Vaccinations

Unpaid Carers will be invited for their Covid-19 vaccination as part of priority group 6, although if you are over 65 or classed as clinically extremely vulnerable to the virus, you will be invited earlier. Invites for the vaccination will be sent out via GP practices to carers that are known to GP's. Carers will be known to their GPs if they have been identified as an unpaid carer. 

You can find more information via our dedicated Support for Family and Unpaid Carers page.

Translations of easy-read COVID-19 vaccination leaflets

Public Health England (PHE) has published translated versions of easy-read leaflets on the COVID-19 vaccinations. The leaflets, which include information on what to expect after your vaccine and information for women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding their baby, are now available in 21 languages including English, Arabic, Urdu and Polish: Leaflets: Covid-19 vaccination easy read resources

Last updated: 29 June 2021 11:52:43