Clinics open for Covid-19 spring vaccinations

NHS leaders in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are encouraging anyone who is eligible for the Covid-19 spring vaccine to come forward for their jab, as vaccine clinics open from today (Monday 17 April).

People aged 75 and over and those with a weakened immune system are invited to have this further dose of vaccine to top up their protection against Covid-19, which continues to circulate. The protection from each dose of the vaccine fades over time, so it is important that people continue to have seasonal top-ups when they are due.

Everyone eligible will receive an invite – by text, by letter or through the NHS App – and is encouraged to book on the National Booking Service online at https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/ or by calling 119 or by using the NHS App. People should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.

In Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland the majority of vaccinations this spring will be provided by GP practices and pharmacies. People can book in advance, or they can drop in to one of the clinics which do not require an appointment, such as the clinic at Highcross Shopping Centre in Leicester, which is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm. Details of all walk-in clinics are available online on the walk-in site finder.

A mobile vaccination service will also be visiting local communities, starting at Loughborough Market from this Thursday to Saturday (20 to 22 April) between 9am and 4pm. Specialist clinics are also available next Wednesday (26 April) in Leicester and next Saturday (29 April)in Loughborough, for children and adults with a learning disability. These clinics offer a friendly and calm atmosphere, longer appointment times and vaccinators specialising in learning disability support and care. Details are available at: https://www.leicspart.nhs.uk/latest/covid-19-latest-information/specialist-covid-19-vaccination-clinics-for-people-with-a-learning-disability/

Spring vaccination appointments will be available until 30 June. This will also be the final date for first and second doses of the vaccine for healthy individuals aged 5 and over. After this date, the vaccine offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk from Covid-19, usually during seasonal campaigns.

People can check their eligibility online at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination/getting-a-booster-dose-of-the-covid-19-vaccine/ . Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.