Redbridge residents will get the opportunity to learn about the new Omicron coronavirus variant, how they can get their jab and more at a public meeting.

The virtual meeting is being organised by Redbridge Council to share the latest local Covid information, listen to concerns, and answer questions.

Redbridge Council Leader Cllr Jas Athwal will host the meeting and will be joined by Cllr Mark Santos, Redbridge Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, public health consultant Ian Dile, and health professional GP Loxford PCN CD Dr Shabnam Ali.

It will be held on Thursday at 6pm and on Microsoft Teams.

Cllr Athwal said: “Local people understandably have lots of questions about the COVID-19 vaccination programme and the Omicron variant; this meeting is an opportunity to have those questions answered not just by the council and public health experts, but those who work in our health system.

“The challenge that Redbridge, London, and the country faces is significant, and we all need and want to share the festive season with our loved ones. The key to being able to do so is vaccination. I hope that Thursday’s meeting will help to answer some questions and help the borough get boosted.”

Panel members will discuss:

  • Omicron variant and the new government guidelines
  • How residents can get the COVID-19 Vaccination
  • Who is eligible for the booster vaccine and why
  • Vaccinations and pregnancy

There will also be a live Q&A.

Dr Ali said:“As a local doctor I’ve seen first-hand the devastation Covid has brought to our communities. Let’s work together to keep our communities protected from the ravages of this awful pandemic.”