Spring COVID Booster Appointments Open This Week
This latest vaccination is being offered to those considered most at risk, following advice from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation, including those aged over 75, those aged five and over with a reduced immune system and older adult care home residents.
The NHS will be contacting eligible people to remind them that they can get the vaccine and where to get the jab locally, with the majority of appointments being delivered in communities by pharmacies and GPs.
Anthony Fitzgerald, NHS South Yorkshire Executive Place Director and Vaccination Programme Lead said:
“We are working across the whole of South Yorkshire to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine to those at the highest risk from severe illness. NHS staff have already begun administering spring booster doses to care home residents over the last two weeks, now it’s the turn of those over 75 and anyone over 5 years old who is immunosuppressed.
“Please do come forward when you are invited for your booster to ensure you and your loved ones stay protected. There is no need to contact your GP or the NHS, we will be in touch with you when it is your turn.”
Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.
Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on-site.
Dr David Crichton, NHS South Yorkshire Chief Medical Officer and local GP said:
“As we enter spring, it’s important to remember immunity from Covid vaccines declines over time. Unfortunately, the virus is still with us and affecting thousands of people across the UK every week. Vaccinations are still the best form of protection and are offered to those at greatest risk to help them to maintain strong protection from becoming seriously ill or needing treatment in hospital.
“I would urge anyone eligible for the spring booster to take up the offer to get their covid vaccination and give yourself protection this summer”.
The spring vaccination appointments will be offered until the end of June. Anyone who turns 75yrs before then is eligible.
Covid-19 vaccinations for everyone who was aged 5 on or before 31 August 2022 will also end after that date, following recent advice from the JCVI. After 30 June, the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk, usually during seasonal campaigns.
Bookings can also be made at any time via visiting nhs.uk/CovidVaccination. If you can’t get online you can call 119 for free. Alternatively, you can wait to be contacted locally by a GP practice.
