Don't let COVID-19 ruin your summer – only two weeks left to get protected for those most at risk!

A leading respiratory consultant is reminding people most at risk to get their spring COVID-19 booster before the vaccination programme ends on 17 June.

With only two weeks remaining, those most vulnerable of becoming ill from the virus are being encouraged to come forward now to ensure they stay protected throughout the spring and summer months.

Those eligible include adults aged 75 and over, residents in older adult care homes and anyone with a weakened immune system including those undergoing chemotherapy, people with blood cancer or HIV, organ transplant recipients, and anyone taking immunosuppressant medication.

Latest figures show that 209,314 of the 413,336 eligible people across the North East and North Cumbria have already had their COVID-19 vaccine this spring, 51 percent of those most at risk.

Dr Catherine Monaghan, respiratory consultant and medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "The COVID-19 spring booster offer will end on 17 June so if you are eligible, please book your appointment now - don’t miss the deadline!

"COVID-19 is still a real threat, not just in winter but throughout the year, including spring and summer. The virus can cause severe illness, especially in older people and those with weakened immune systems - many of whom will require hospital care.

"If you are at risk getting vaccinated and topping up your immunity is essential, so please don't miss out on this opportunity - book a vaccination now and don't let COVID-19 ruin your summer."

NHS staff across the region are continuing to visit care homes for older people and eligible housebound patients, with uptake among care homes now at 64 percent.

COVID-19 vaccines, for those eligible, can be booked until Tuesday 17 June by:

·       Searching NHS COVID-19 vaccine online www.nhs.uk/bookcovid

·       Using the NHS App

·       Calling 119 for free

·       Appointments are also available at community vaccination clinics – book online at Be wise, immunise, community vaccination clinics

·       Details of available walk in appointments are also available on the NHS walk-in finder.