People at increased risk from COVID-19 in Cheshire and Merseyside are being encouraged to book in for their spring vaccine.
Eligible people include those aged 75 or over on 30 June 2024, people with a weakened immune system and those who live in an older adult care home, who are more likely to have a severe illness if they catch the virus.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) surveillance data on last year’s spring Covid-19 vaccination programme showed that those who received a vaccine were around 50% less likely to be admitted to hospital with COVID-19 for three to four months after vaccination, compared to those who did not receive one.
The NHS is sending texts, emails, NHS App messages or letters to those who are eligible.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, Associate Medical Director, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: “There are more than 180 sites offering COVID-19 vaccines across Cheshire and Merseyside, including GP practices, hospital hubs, community pharmacies and mobile clinics such as Cheshire & Merseyside’s Living Well Bus.
“We’re encouraging those who are eligible to take a moment to book their appointment online or to visit a local walk-in clinic and top up their protection by getting vaccinated this spring.”
Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning for NHS England – North West, said: “COVID-19 can still be very dangerous and even life-threatening, particularly for older people and those with a weakened immune system. The vaccine gives good protection and helps reduce the risk of serious illness or death, needing to go to hospital, catching and spreading the virus.
“Even if people have had previous doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, viruses change and protection fades over time so it’s really important that people come forward to get this latest dose of vaccine.”
People can book a vaccine appointment via the NHS website at www.nhs.uk or by calling 119 for free, with parents or carers able to book a Covid-19 vaccination for children under 16 on their behalf. Eligible people aged 16 and over can also use the NHS App to book an appointment.
Walk-in availability for community pharmacies is updated daily on the NHS walk-in finder, opening times for all other clinics, including the Living Well Bus, can be found on the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside website.
The last appointments will be on 30 June, 2024.
The NHS is also encouraging those eligible to get the shingles vaccine, which is recommended for all adults turning 65, those aged 70 to 79, and those aged 50 and over with a severely weakened immune system. Anyone eligible should be contacted by their GP surgery to book an appointment.