Millions invited to book next Covid jab from today – as top doctor warns ‘immunity wanes over time’
SPRING Covid boosters are available to book from today.
Some 7.5 million in England are eligible, including adults aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes and people with a weakened immune system.
The vaccine helps reduce the risk of catching and spreading Covid, including new strains.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s national medical director, said: “The latest weekly NHS statistics show there are still more than 1,000 people in hospital with Covid each day, showing that this continues to be a serious illness, particularly for older people and those with weakened immune systems.
“Previous immunity – either from having the virus or from a previous vaccination – can wane over time, so it is vital that those who are at higher risk top up their protection.”
The first slots will be available on April 1, running to June 17.
Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health and Security Agency said: “Last year’s spring Covid programme reduced the risk of getting severely ill and being hospitalised by over 40 per cent in those at greatest risk – for up to nine weeks after vaccination.
“I would strongly advise all eligible to get vaccinated to top up your immunity and greatly reduce your chances of the virus ruining your spring and summer months.”
Getting a vaccine is easier than it’s ever been.
Thousands of sites across England will offer the jab, particularly pharmacies and GP practices.
You do not need to wait for an invitation to book – though text, emails or alerts on the NHS App are being sent to those eligible as a reminder.
Prof Powis said: “Just visit the NHS website, use the NHS App or call 119 now to book your appointment.”
Anyone eligible who has not received any previous doses should still get vaccinated during this year’s spring offer.
The programme will run between March 31 and June 30 in Scotland and between April 1 and June 30 in Wales.
Full list of eligibility
Eligibility for a spring vaccination, as advised by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), includes:
- Adults aged 75 years and over, including those who will turn 75 years old by 17 June 2025.
- Residents in a care home for older adults
- Individuals aged six months and over who are immunosuppressed (COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a; Tables 3 and 4)
Minister for Public Health and Prevention Ashley Dalton said: “It is crucial we continue to protect the most vulnerable from COVID-19, ensuring they have protection against serious illness.
“Getting vaccinated is now quicker and more convenient than ever, with thousands of sites open across the country, including local pharmacies and GP practices.
“I urge everyone who is also eligible to join me and get their spring jab as soon as possible.”
NHS England warned the Covid-19 virus continues to circulate and can be highly dangerous.
Data shows hospital rates are highest in those aged 85 years and over.
In the week to March 18, there were 800 Covid cases identified in hospital settings – which has remained stable since the winter, albeit slightly lower than in December.
The life-saving vaccines you need at every age
The age at which you receive a vaccine depends on two things - the vaccine itself and the diseases it protects against.
Eight Weeks
- 6-in-1 vaccine
- Rotavirus vaccine
- MenB vaccine
12 Weeks
- 6-in-1 vaccine (2nd dose)
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Rotavirus vaccine (2nd dose)
16 Weeks
- 6-in-1 vaccine (3rd dose)
- MenB vaccine (2nd dose)
One Year
- Hib/MenC vaccine (1st dose)
- MMR vaccine (1st dose)
- Pneumococcal vaccine (2nd dose)
- MenB vaccine (3rd dose)
Two to 15 Years
- Children’s flu vaccine (every year until children finish Year 11 of secondary school)
Three Years and Four Months
- MMR vaccine (2nd dose)
- 4-in-1 pre-school booster vaccine
12 to 13 Years
- HPV vaccine
14 Years
- 3-in-1 teenage booster vaccine
- MenACWY vaccine
65 Years
- Flu vaccine (given every year after turning 65)
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Shingles vaccine (if you turned 65 on or after 1 September 2023)
70 to 79 Years
- Shingles vaccine
Source: The NHS