Spring vaccination launch

People aged 75 and over, care home residents and people with a weakened immune system are being invited to top-up their immunity against COVID-19 this spring!

PEOPLE across the North East and North Cumbia who need extra protection against COVID-19 are being invited to top-up their immunity this Spring.

The COVID-19 spring vaccine programme will offer vaccinations to people aged 75 and over, along with care home residents and anyone aged five and over with a weakened immune system.

People in these groups will become eligible for the vaccine around six months after their previous dose.

Vaccinations for those in care homes, will start from the 3 April, ahead of the wider vaccination roll-out to other groups on 17 April.

Dr Janet Walker, primary care advisor, North East and North Cumbria COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, said: "Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against becoming severely unwell with COVID-19.

"The spring vaccination programme will provide an opportunity for those who are at the highest risk of severe illness from the virus to keep their immunity topped up."

This year's spring vaccination programme aims to bridge the gap to the planned booster campaign in the autumn, enabling those who are most vulnerable to be well protected throughout the summer.

Those eligible for a vaccination will be contacted by the NHS and invited to book a spring booster when it is due.

Vaccinations will be available at local GP hubs, GP surgeries and community pharmacies.

As the programme is rolled out, community pop up sites and vaccine buses may become available to make it easier for people to access a vaccine.

Appointments for vaccine clinics are now available to book online, via the national booking service at https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/ or by calling 119.

Vaccination appointments will commence from 17 April.

Some GP surgeries will also contact patients directly, when they become eligible, to book appointments for their vaccination.

"The spring vaccination offers an additional layer of protection to the most vulnerable people to top up their immunity and reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill this summer," added Dr Walker.

"We cannot vaccinate everyone at the same time, which is why the programme is phased, starting with those in care homes, so don’t worry if you’ve not heard from us straight away… you will be contacted.

"The NHS online booking system will be open until 29 June, with the last vaccinations being offered the following day 30 June, giving people the opportunity to choose an appointment at a time and place which is convenient for them. 

"Some areas however may not have local appointments available on the NHS booking system, so patients may choose to wait to be contacted by their GP surgery to get their vaccination closer to home.

"It is so important for people who need extra protection to get additional immunity and I would strongly urge everyone who is eligible to come forward for a vaccination when invited.”