Southport hospital nurse tests positive for virus AFTER getting vaccine

A warning has been issued to people in Southport not to assume they are instantly immune after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

It comes after both a nurse and a GP receptionist, who both work for Southport & Ormskirk NHS trust both tested positive for Coronavirus after receiving their first doses of a vaccine.

Both staff members say they were taking the utmost precautions after receiving their vaccine doses but were still surprised to find they later became infected.

Speaking originally to the Liverpool Echo, the Southport hospital trust nurse warned “It’s important we get the vaccine, but we need to remember it takes time to build immunity, and that one vaccination doesn’t stop you getting the virus.”

Terry Hankin, Medical Director at Southport & Ormskirk NHS Trust, said: “Covid infection rates are still very high in our community and we would urge the public to continue to follow the guidance – washing their hands regularly, wearing a facemask, and maintaining social distancing at all times, regardless of whether they have received the vaccine or not.

“The vaccine can take up to three weeks after the first jab to offer any protection against the virus, so it is vital people continue to do everything they can to minimise the spread of the virus.”