Last call for Spring COVID Booster jabs in Cornwall
Those eligible are being encouraged to come forward before the end of June
Last updated 25th Jun 2023
NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly is issuing an urgent reminder to the public that the Spring Booster Programme for COVID-19 vaccinations will be concluding soon.
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.
People have until the end of June to do so.
Iain Davidson, Chief Pharmacist for Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "COVID-19 continues to pose a substantial threat to individuals aged 75 and over and those who are immunosuppressed. These groups are more prone to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death if infected.
"The booster vaccine provides a vital opportunity to bolster their immune response and enhance protection ahead of the summer months when the risk of exposure may increase.
"It is crucial for individuals in these groups to act now and secure their booster appointments or find their nearest walk-in clinic.
"Other than some very specific exceptions, after 30 June, we will no longer be able to offer first, second or booster doses to individuals until the next booster programme which we expect to start in the autumn."
Dr. Ruth Goldstein, Deputy Director of Public Health for Cornwall Council, stressed the urgency of taking action, adding: "It is critical for eligible individuals to act promptly.
"The booster vaccine is a powerful tool in strengthening immunity against COVID-19. By coming forward for your booster, you are adding an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of severe illness and its potential impact on your health."
Booking an appointment for the COVID-19 spring booster can be done online through the NHS website or by calling 119 free of charge.
In this booster drive members of public can also book their appointment via the NHS app. Walk-in clinics are also available across Cornwall via the NHS walk-in finder.
Spring booster eligibility
Those aged five years and over who are immunosuppressed, people aged 75 years and over, and those in care homes are being offered a Spring Booster of COVID-19 vaccine.
According to the NHS, people who have a weakened immune system, or immunosuppression, can include those who had or have:
- A blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma
- An organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant
- HIV infection at all stages
- A genetic disorder affecting the immune system
- A treatment such as steroid medicine, biological therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Certain medicines that increase your risk of infection, such as azathioprine, dexamethasone, prednisolone, ciclosporin or mycophenolate (depending on dosage)
- A long-term immunosuppressive treatment for conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, scleroderma and psoriasis
The NHS say this list is a summary and does not cover everything. There are other health conditions and treatments that may mean someone has a weakened immune system.
They advise anyone who suspects they may be immunosuppressed to speak to their GP for advice.
COVID vaccinations also end for those who have not had any of their jabs
The current offer of first and second doses of COVID vaccinations for everyone will end at the same time as Spring Boosters, on 30 June 2023.
After 30 June, not everyone will be able to get the COVID vaccine from the NHS.
The offer will become more targeted to those at higher risk from severe COVID-19, following advice from JCVI. The vaccine then will usually only be offered seasonally (for example, during the autumn-winter period).
Those who have not had any of their COVID vaccinations are therefore urged to book their first and second doses of the jab before Friday 30 June.
They are reminded that they do not need to be registered with a GP to get a vaccination, and there are walk-in options available too via the NHS website.