Black Isle Showground 'perfect' venue for flu vaccination – could it also play a role in coronavirus fightback?
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AN iconic Ross-shire venue close to the hearts of the farming community could play a crucial role in the county's long-term coronavirus fightback.
Some eyebrows were raised when the Black Isle Showground was selected as a trailblazing drive-through venue for a flu vaccination programme set up for hundreds of potentially vulnerable people.
But plaudits from patients delighted by the slick operation have been pouring in this week, prompting suggestions a site best known for the Black Isle Show - ironically cancelled this year because of Covid-19 - could be a perfect fit for a future coronavirus vaccination programme.
The pressure ahead of this week's Muir of Ord session mounted following chaotic scenes witnessed outside the County Hospital in Invergordon last Saturday when a lengthy queue of elderly people waiting for appointments formed outside in cold, wet conditions, sparking angry complaints.
Dr Ross Jaffrey of the Croyard Road practice covering Beauly and Muir of Ord said he was delighted at how well this week's session, run jointly with the Aird practice, had run.
Admitting some people were sceptical about the venue at first, and that the situation at Invergordon had raised anxieties, he said it had "run like clockwork" and described the large, well-aired building being used within the showground as "perfect" for the job, resembling a field hospital.
Thousands of people viewed a video he made explaining the set-up and procedure.
He said: "The showground team have been so helpful. Using their building has given us an extremely safe method of giving the flu vaccine. Community volunteers are also integral to the effort."
He said: "Most have been in and out within 5-10 minutes from entering the showground to leaving. Many are asking if we can do the same when a Covid vaccine comes out."
Dr Jaffrey – who set up an informative and well-received Safe Hands, saves lives Facebook page at the start of pandemic – said he had been thinking about the flu vaccine for months.
He said: "It could be "a fantastic run through for Covid."
He said of the first day of the unconventional clinic: "I think it was the most delightful day I have had since this pandemic started. It's the human contact we are missing. It's the joy of the job."
He believes the flu vaccination programme is well worth the effort as it can also reduce the pressure on the NHS at a time when capacity may be needed.
Many took to Facebook to share their views.
Frank Stephen wrote: "Very quiet and so well organised. Was in and out within five minutes.Great idea."
Elis MacFadyen wrote: "Good organisation by Beauly and Muir of Ord practices. Flu jab system flowing smoothly."
Pat Davies said: "Excellent organisation! Must admit, I did have concerns when I heard about this but I was so wrong! Well done and thank you!"
Keith Walker said: "All credit to them, very well run and some fantastic volunteers too. Thanks everyone!" Lindsey Stout said: "Brilliant. So quick and easy. Can we do it like that every year?!"
Emma Howell hailed the "amazing set-up at the showground".
Liza Chisholm: "Just had my vaccination.10 out of 10.Great system.Thank you."
Dingwall Medical Group is using Dingwall Academy as part of its vaccination programme during the school holidays. It has appealed to people to turn up at their appointment time wearing something that makes access to the top of their arm easy. Dr Moira McKenna said: "We still have plenty of appointments left and are still looking to fill them if we can.
"We know it has at times been difficult to get through on our phone line but our staff have been working extremely hard to make sure all our patients can have their flu vaccine this year."
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