NHS Devon is issuing an urgent reminder to the public that the Spring booster programme for COVID-19 vaccinations will be concluding in just three days.
Eligible individuals, including those aged 75 and over, as well as individuals aged 5 and over who are immunosuppressed, are strongly encouraged to come forward and book their appointments without delay to ensure they do not miss out on this crucial opportunity to top up their protection ahead of the summer.
The spring booster campaign ends on Friday 30 June and it will also be the last opportunity for anyone who hasn’t had their first or second doses to receive them too. After this, the NHS is moving to a targeted seasonal offer for those at increased risk.
The NHS COVID-19 Vaccination Programme in Devon has provided more than 135,000 people with a spring booster to date, which is over 65% of those eligible.
The spring booster is for anyone aged over 75 years old and anyone over five years old who is immunosuppressed.
Dr Alex Degan, primary care medical director, NHS Devon, said: “If you have had only one COVID-19 vaccine so far, or none at all, it is not too late. You can get vaccinated quickly and easily until 30 June so please act now and protect yourself from COVID-19 before the offer ends.
“There are appointments available over the next three days at sites across the county, making it easier than ever to get protected.”
The campaign kicked off in April in adult care homes and roving NHS teams have now visited all eligible care homes in Devon. More than 9,000 care home residents have had this extra protection.
This spring booster vaccination is being offered to those considered most at risk, following advice from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation. Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.
Booking a vaccination
Most vaccination appointments are being delivered by pharmacies and GPs but there are also vaccination centres at sites across Devon.
Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but hasn’t received an invite can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.
The last spring vaccination appointments will be offered on 30 June.
COVID-19 vaccinations for everyone who was aged 5 on or before 31 August 2022 will also end after that date, following recent advice from the JCVI. After 30 June, the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk, usually during seasonal campaigns.