19 Jun Public urged to get vaccinated as spring COVID-19 vaccine programme enters final fortnight
Local NHS and public health experts are encouraging eligible people across Essex to get their spring COVID-19 vaccine as this season’s vaccination programme enters its final fortnight.
People aged 75 and over by 30 June 2024, those living in care homes for older adults, and people with a weakened immune system are eligible for a spring COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine reduces the risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 and is offered to these groups of people because they are more at risk than others of getting severely ill from the disease.
Across the area over 85,414 eligible people have already had the vaccine – but there are still some who haven’t yet accepted their invitation.
Dr Anna Davey, local GP and Primary Care Partner Member for NHS Mid and South Essex, said: “With just two weeks left before the spring COVID-19 vaccination offer closes, we want to encourage everyone who is eligible to get their jab. This vaccine could prevent you from getting seriously ill with COVID-19, so if you’re invited, please accept the offer.
“If you’re over 75, living in a care home, if you have had an illness or received treatment that has weakened your immune system, it is really important that you take up the offer of the vaccination this spring. It’s the safest and most effective way of protecting yourself from COVID-19, and it will help you to recover more quickly if you catch the virus.
“It is encouraging to see that many of those who are eligible have already come forward for their spring COVID vaccine. If you haven’t had it, there are pharmacies and walk-in clinics across mid and south Essex that are offering the vaccine until the end of June.”
Getting the spring COVID-19 vaccine is easy – those eligible can book by visiting www.nhs.uk/book-vaccine or by calling 119. Vaccinations are available at The Lodge in Runwell and there is no need to book – just check the dates and times on the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust’s website.
The last day people can get the spring COVID-19 vaccine is Sunday 30 June 2024. Residents will not be able to book a vaccine appointment online or by calling 119 after 29 June 2024.
The final walk-in session at The Lodge, Runwell, will be on Saturday 22nd June.
