IT’S not too late for those eligible to get a spring Covid booster, health chiefs in Devon say.
More than four million people have now received their spring covid booster from the NHS just 10 weeks after bookings officially opened as part of the latest vaccination campaign.
About seven million people are eligible for a jab this year, including those aged 75 and over, those with a weakened immune system and older adult care home residents.
With just one week left of this year’s spring covid vaccine programme, the NHS is urging all eligible people who haven’t yet had their top-up to come forward and get protected before June 30.
Dr Alex Degan, a GP in Devon and primary care medical director at NHS Devon, said: ‘It is fantastic that ten weeks since the launch of the spring covid vaccination campaign, so many vulnerable people have already come forward to receive their vital protection, with NHS staff also having vaccinated nearly two thirds of care home residents.
‘Covid-19 can still be dangerous for those most vulnerable, so it is vital people come forward for a top up jab if eligible – the NHS is making it easier than ever to get vaccinated with the new joint booking option, and it’s not too late.
‘You can still book in through the NHS App, by calling 119, or by visiting the NHS website where there is a list of walk-in sites that you can go to without an appointment.’
Vaccination sites in Devon include Greendale near Exeter, Home Park in Plymouth, some community pharmacies and GP practices.
Statistics from the UK Health Security Agency on last year’s spring covid-19 vaccination programme showed those who received a vaccine were up to 50per cent 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.
More details on people eligible for Covid-19 vaccines and how to book a jab are available at nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination/getting-a-covid-19-vaccine