The NHS national online booking system has today opened (Tuesday March 25) for people to book appointments, which start on Tuesday 1 April.
Those eligible for this year’s spring Covid-19 vaccine are:
- 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
- People aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system who are at a greater risk from severe illness. (As as defined in Covid-19: the green book chapter 14A tables 3 and 4).
The Covid-19 virus continues to circulate and can be highly dangerous, particularly if you are in one of these groups. On average, more than 1,000 hospital beds nationally were taken up each day in winter by Covid patients.
The vaccine provides vital protection against different strains of the Covid virus. It helps reduce the risk of catching and spreading it, as well as the risk of serious illness or needing to go to hospital if you do catch it.
Dr Helen Wall, clinical director for population health at NHS Greater Manchester, said:
“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.
“Getting vaccinated is now quicker and more convenient than ever. Hundreds of appointments are available every day across Greater Manchester, with most happening at pharmacies and GP practices, and they will continue to run until Tuesday 17 June.
“People who are eligible for the jab will be contacted by text, email, NHS App messages or letters, but you don’t need to wait for an invitation to book – just visit the NHS website, use the NHS App or call 119 now to book your appointment.”
As well as booked appointments, there are walk-in appointments available every day. A full list of local locations is on the NHS walk-in finder.
Anyone eligible who has not received any previous doses should still get vaccinated during this year’s spring offer, to help protect against serious illness.
Respiratory syncytial virus
The NHS is also encouraging people aged 75 to 79 (including those who have turned 80 since 1 September 2024) and pregnant women from 28 weeks to get the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine by booking an appointment with their GP practice.
Dr Wall added:
“I would strongly advise all eligible people to get vaccinated, top up your immunity and greatly reduce the chances of the virus ruining your spring and summer.”
Book your Covid-19 vaccination on the NHS webiste
