It's time to get your Spring covid-19 vaccination

With Covid-19 still very much about and causing severe illness for some, the new vaccine round is aimed at boosting the protection of the most vulnerable people

This week sees those eligible - people aged 75 and over and people with weakened immune systems - attend appointments to receive their Covid-19 spring vaccination.

With Covid-19 still very much about and causing severe illness for some, the new vaccine round is aimed at boosting the protection of the most vulnerable people.

Vaccine centres across Greater Manchester, including selected GP surgeries and local pharmacies, will begin giving spring jabs from today (Tuesday), and will do so until the end of June.

Vaccinations for residents of care homes for older people have already started.

People who haven’t yet had first and second Covid-19 vaccinations are also being encouraged to come forward and get their jabs up to date during this time, particularly as they are still required for travel to some countries.

Dr Helen Wall, Clinical Director for Population Health, NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, said: “Because immunity from previous vaccination or infection from Covid-19 fades, it is important that people come and get their protection boosted.

“The virus continues to circulate widely, and older people and those with weakened immune systems are still the main groups developing more severe illness and being hospitalised.

"It’s important that they get booked in for a jab ASAP.”

She added: “While we are offering the spring vaccination over the next few weeks there’s also an opportunity for people to come in and get a first or second Covid-19 vaccination, or both if they come for a first before May 5.”

The last spring vaccination appointments and first and second doses for people aged five and above will be offered until June 30. 

After that the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk, usually during seasonal campaigns.

If you are eligible for a spring booster or a first or second vaccination, you can make a booking by using the NHS App or visiting: nhs.uk/CovidVaccination

If you can’t get online, you can call 119 for free.

Some areas also offer convenient walk-in vaccinations - to find out what is available, click here

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