Spring Covid jab available soon to help Derby and Derbyshire’s most vulnerable stay protected

The NHS kicks off the next phase of its world-renowned covid vaccination programme today (Monday 3rd April) with a spring campaign to protect the most vulnerable, starting in care homes.

Around 144,000 people in the Derby and Derbyshire region will be eligible for a spring Covid jab, including over 75s, those with a weakened immune system and older adult care home residents.

Those living in care homes will be prioritised and begin to receive vaccinations from today (Monday 3rd April) as local NHS teams visit homes to offer protection.

Others eligible will be able to book in on the National Booking Service or NHS App from Wednesday (5th April), for the first appointments available week commencing Monday 17th April.

This latest vaccination is being offered to those considered most at risk, following advice from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation. Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last COVID dose.

Joined Up Care Derbyshire’s Vaccination Programme Director, Mandy Simpson, said: “Covid-19 is still in circulation and older people and those with weakened immune systems are at risk of becoming seriously ill if they catch the virus. We know that many people who are in these groups and eligible for the spring vaccination will be keen to get the further protection being offered as soon as possible.

“We remain committed at Joined Up Care Derbyshire to delivering a successful vaccination programme to protect our population. I would urge those that are eligible to come forward and take up the opportunity of further protection from the vaccine when the programme opens this week.

“It’s quick and easy to get vaccinated and will give you the protection you need for the months ahead. The NHS will be contacting people when they are eligible to come forward and bookings can be made through the National Booking System, the NHS App, or by calling 119. GP practices and community pharmacies are already extremely busy, so please don’t’ call them about getting your vaccination.”

It will be the first time that millions will be sent their initial invitations through the NHS App, where they can also book, as the NHS continues to expand its technological capabilities.

Text messages and letters will also be sent to those without the app or not actively using it.

There are more than 50 sites across Derby and Derbyshire, with the majority of appointments being delivered in communities by pharmacies and GPs.

People who have not yet received a 1^st or 2^nd dose of the Covid-19 vaccinations who are not in an at risk group will still be able to have theirs during the spring vaccine programme.

When you are contacted by the NHS, you will be invited to book an appointment via the National Booking System, the NHS App, or by calling 119.