Spring has sprung in the NHS and once again Covid booster vaccinations are being offered to those most at risk of becoming seriously unwell.
Protection from previous vaccinations fades over time, so topping up immunity helps keep people safer as the year goes on.
The spring booster programme starts on 13th April and focuses on protecting those who are most vulnerable to severe illness. Eligible patients include those who are:
- Aged 75 or over
- A resident in a care home for older adults
- Aged 6 months or over with a weakened immune system
While no vaccine can offer complete protection, having the booster significantly reduces the risk of serious illness. Many people who catch Covid after vaccination experience milder symptoms and recover more quickly.
Locally, vaccination clinics will be held at the Healthy Living Centre on two Saturdays – 18th and 25th April. As before, School Lane Surgery and Grove Surgery will be working together to ensure as many eligible patients as possible are vaccinated as quickly as possible.
For now, there is nothing you need to do. Patients who are eligible will be contacted and offered an appointment.
Care home residents and housebound patients will also be contacted to arrange a suitable date.
Please note that patients under 18 will not be vaccinated at these clinics. Details of where eligible children can be vaccinated are available on the surgery’s websites.
Getting vaccinated not only helps protect you, but also helps reduce the spread of infection within the community, protecting friends, family and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
If you are eligible, please consider taking up the offer when your invitation arrives.
Let’s have a happy and healthy spring.
Marc Rolph
Business Manager – School Lane Surgery
