Ryan Walker went to the first Covid-19 vaccination event at Emirates Stadium back in June. The home of the Gunners hosted a four-day walk-in clinic aptly named #GunnerGetJabbed. 

On the eve of the next vaccination weekend at the Arsenal stadium, we spoke to Ryan to see how he’s feeling about the Covid vaccine now. 

“I’m local to the area and was very grateful to Arsenal for offering the vaccinations.  

“The whole process was very quick, with a lot of information provided throughout. And I didn’t notice any obvious side effects afterwards. 

On the topic of how he’s feeling now he’s been vaccinated, Ryan said: “Even before Covid, I always carried a bottle of hand sanitizer with me. I continue to wear a face covering on public transport, especially on transport with limited ventilation or fresh air like the tube. Regular hand washing should be second nature for all of us.”

There is a chance you might still get or spread Covid even if you’ve had the vaccine, but two doses do offer stronger and longer-lasting protection. The vaccines also reduce the risk of getting seriously ill or dying from Covid, and protect against variants. As Ryan unfortunately discovered: “I did catch Covid after going to a social event a few days after receiving the first vaccine. I felt terrible for a few days, and still suffer from long Covid. It’s left me wanting to get my second jab as soon as possible. 

“Personally, if you’ve received the first dose, what reason would you have for not wanting the second? I want maximum protection from this virus. Getting the jab is inevitable. Covid is here to stay, unfortunately, so we’ve got to protect ourselves while our bodies are not so susceptible.” 

The second #GunnerGetJabbed event takes place this weekend from Saturday 7 to Tuesday 10 August inclusive, 9.30am-6.30pm (starting at 10am on Saturday). It’s a chance to get your first dose Pfizer, or a second if your first was more than eight weeks ago. Please don’t make a wasted journey down if your last vaccine was less than eight weeks ago as you won’t be able to have your second vaccine.   

Please remember your face covering, as you will need to wear this inside, unless you are exempt and don’t come if you have Covid symptoms – get a test instead. 

You do not need to be registered with a GP or have an NHS number, and you will not have your immigration status checked. 

Just walk in, or book online through gunnergetjabbed2.eventbrite.co.uk. Follow Islington Council on social media @IslingtonBC for the latest updates about best times to turn up. 

For more information or to book over the phone, call the We are Islington helpline on 020 7527 8222 or minicom on 020 7527 1900. Lines are open every day from 9am to 5pm.