Dental teams confirmed as priority for a COVID-19 vaccine

In an update from chief dental officer for England, Sara Hurley, writes that, alongside other health and care staff, dental professionals and their teams are now being prioritised for a COVID-19 vaccine.

She adds: 'This means that dental teams supporting the NHS, those working in private or mixed practices will all be entitled to a vaccine, this includes specialist practices and clinical dental technicians registered with the CQC.'

Today's update (Thursday7 January) states that dental professionals who work for a NHS trust will fall within the vaccination programme co-ordinated through their trust.

Locum clinical staff employed by the practice and non-clinical ancillary staff who may have social contact with patients but are not directly involved in patient care (e.g. receptionists and cleaners) are also included.