The Covid-19 spring booster campaign has kicked off in Leeds, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups like those over 75 and individuals with weakened immune systems. To get the vaccine, eligible individuals can easily book appointments through the NHS website, call 119, or visit walk-in sites at community pharmacies.
Who is eligible for the Covid-19 spring booster vaccine in Leeds and how can they get it?
Eligible individuals for the Covid-19 spring booster in Leeds include those over 75 years old and individuals older than 6 months with weakened immune systems. They can book their vaccination through:
- The NHS website
- Calling the toll-free number 119
- Visiting walk-in vaccination sites at community pharmacies
Parents or carers must book for under-16s, while others can use the NHS App.
Campaign Launch
Leeds has begun its Covid-19 spring booster vaccination initiative, targeting those most susceptible to the virus. In a significant shift from previous strategies, individuals eligible for the booster are now urged to proactively seek vaccination. They are encouraged to do this at their convenience, rather than waiting for an NHS invite. This year, the focus is on individuals over 75 years of age and those older than 6 months with weakened immune systems due to certain diseases or conditions.
With the spring vaccine now readily accessible, eligible residents can swiftly book their vaccination appointments. They have multiple booking options:
1. The NHS website
2. The toll-free number 119
3. Walk-in vaccination sites at community pharmacies
Parents and carers have the responsibility of booking vaccinations for children under the age of 16, while those older can independently book through the NHS App.
Outreach and Accessibility
In its quest to ensure widespread immunity, NHS England is employing various methods to remind eligible individuals to get vaccinated. These include text messages, emails, notifications through the NHS App, and letters. Nonetheless, recipients of these reminders do not need to wait; they can schedule appointments anytime.
The NHS has taken additional steps to cater to those unable to leave their homes. Vaccine visits to older adult care homes are underway, and patients who usually receive care at home should contact their GP for vaccine arrangements. In a comprehensive effort to make vaccines available throughout Leeds, over 50 pharmacies and GP-led primary care networks are participating in the delivery of vaccinations.
Impact and Endorsements
Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) underscores the effectiveness of the vaccination program. Their findings show that, for a period of three to four months post-vaccination, individuals who received the booster were approximately 50% less likely to be hospitalized with Covid-19 than those unvaccinated. This statistic highlights the vaccine’s significant role in reducing hospital admissions.
Local health officials have expressed their support for the spring booster campaign. Victoria Eaton, Director of Public Health at Leeds City Council, highlights the ease of accessing the vaccine:
“This year’s spring Covid vaccine offer makes it even easier for people to access a jab. People are being encouraged to come forward as soon as they can and get their free vaccine to boost their immunity and help protect themselves against Covid.”
Dr. James Thomas, GP and Medical Director at West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, emphasizes the ongoing risks posed by the virus, especially to the vulnerable:
“COVID-19 is still very dangerous and even life-threatening, especially for older people and those with a weakened immune system. People at increased risk from severe illness can get the vaccine, including those aged 75 or over (on 30 June 2024), people with a weakened immune system or who live in an older adult care home.”
Dr. Thomas also underscores the vaccine’s protective benefits:
“The COVID-19 vaccine offers good protection and helps reduce the risk of serious illness or death, needing to go to hospital, catching and spreading the virus, and protects against different variants.”
He concludes with a call to action for eligible individuals, stressing the importance of topping up their protection during this spring offer. Booking a vaccination is straightforward and can be done through the NHS App, by calling 119, or visiting the NHS website, which also provides information on walk-in sites available without prior appointment.
- The Covid-19 spring booster campaign in Leeds aims to protect vulnerable groups such as those over 75 and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Eligible individuals for the spring booster vaccine in Leeds can book appointments through the NHS website, by calling 119, or visiting walk-in sites at community pharmacies.
- NHS England is using various methods to remind eligible individuals to get vaccinated, including text messages, emails, notifications through the NHS App, and letters.
- Data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that individuals who received the booster vaccine were approximately 50% less likely to be hospitalized with Covid-19 than those unvaccinated.
- Local health officials in Leeds are endorsing the spring booster campaign, emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated to protect against Covid-19.