My Vaccine Story
We speak to four Hillingdon residents about their vaccine experiences in English, Bengali, Punjabi, Gujarati and Somali.
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Working with North West London Clinical Commissioning Group, Healthwatch Hillingdon conducted four interviews with residents following their COVID-19 vaccinations, to found out more about their experiences, and gain feedback about the process. Below are the videos.
Interview 1
Meera (English and Bengali)
Interview 2
Mr. Kaler, interviewed by Dr.Nasir in Punjabi
English Translation
- Did you have any concerns about being vaccinated? - None whatsoever, since the pandemic started COVID-19 cases were rising daily and also the deaths associated COVID-19. When I heard that pharmaceutical companies worldwide were developing a vaccine for COVID-19, this was excellent news and I was thrilled when the vaccination was developed.
- How were you contacted to book your appointed vaccine and were you happy with the booking process? - I was contacted by my medical centre by text message. I was given details of the vaccination date, time and the address of the vaccination centre. This was followed by a phone call confirming the details. I was very happy with the booking process as it was simple and straightforward.
- (Questions 3,4 & 5 are combined) Were you given enough information on the day about the vaccine? - I was well informed on the day of the vaccine. I was advised to wear a mask and to ensure we all carried out social distancing by keeping 2 metres apart.
- (Questions 3,4 & 5 are combined) How did you find the actual vaccine vaccination process? - Before entering the vaccination centre my temperature was taken and I was given hand sanitiser. When called at reception they checked my name, address and date of birth. I was then sent to the waiting room and an advisor saw me who checked my medical records. They asked me if I had any allergies and sent me to the vaccination area. When I was vaccinated I was told the name of the vaccine and given a card with the date and the name of the vaccine. I was asked to wait in a resting area for 15 minutes before I went home to ensure there was no immediate side-effects.
- (Questions 3,4 & 5 are combined) How was the after-care advice once you received the vaccine? - I was advised that I may suffer from a temperature, tiredness or sore arm. I was assured that this would only be temporary for a couple of days and advised to take paracetamol if needed. In case of severe side-effects I was advised to ring the NHS emergency helpline which is 111. All the after-care dentals was provided in a leaflet which was given at the end of the vaccine.
- Did you have any symptoms or side-effects on the day you got the vaccine? - I had no side-effects on the day of the vaccine.
- Do you have any symptoms or side-effects a week after being vaccinated? - I had no side-effects a week after the vaccine.
- Would you recommend others to take the vaccine, and why? - I would definitely recommend others to take the vaccine. This vaccine was developed after a lot of research and clinical testing before being brought out. Since the vaccines have been introduced hospital admissions and hospital deaths dramatically reduced. The side-effects also reported are very minimal. Therefore I have no hesitation in recommending this vaccine.
- Do you have any concerns about the waiting period for your next vaccine? - I do not have any concerns about the waiting period for the next vaccine. It takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the first vaccine to be fully effective and when the second vaccine is given the immunity is increased greatly.
- Overall how do you feel about the whole vaccination experience? (Follow-up question – is there anything you would like to say to those watching/listening?) - Overall I feel like the entire vaccination process has been very well thought out. I do commend the researchers, medical centres, vaccination team and volunteers who took the time out to ensure this process would be both effective and efficient.
- Is there anything you would like to say to the vaccination team? - I am very grateful towards the vaccination team. The whole vaccination process was very well organised and thought out. Many thanks and please keep up the good work.
Interview 3
Mohamed, interviewed by Dr. Nathoo in Gujarati
Interview 4
Nado, interviewed by Dr. Mohamed in Somali
English Translation
- Did you have any concerns about being vaccinated? - I have no concerns although there was a rumour and disinformation around it, I was vaccinated and have no problems.
- How were you contacted to book your appointed vaccine and were you happy with the booking process? - I was called and asked if was interested to be vaccinated, I said yes, I contacted the practice and booked my first jab with ease.
- Were you given enough information on the day about the vaccine? - Yes, I'm satisfied.
- How did you find the actual vaccine vaccination process? - I went through 3 steps ...registrations at the door, health questioning with staff and was given my jab. It was a straight forward process.
- Have you been informed about possible side effects after your vaccination? - Yes via my granddaughter, and I was also informed and warned to report back if any concerns.
- Did you have any symptoms or side-effects after the vaccine? - No.
- Would you recommend others to take the vaccine, and why? - Yes, it is for their health & wellbeing benefit, therefore it is important that everyone on us get vaccinated and protect them from this deadly virus.
- Do you have any concerns about the waiting period for your next vaccine? - Not at all, I have no problem waiting my turn for the second one.
- Overall how do you feel about the whole vaccination experience? I am delighted to get vaccinated and urge all to do so.
- What is your advice to the community? - Go and get vaccinated.