Over-75s urged to book their extra spring Covid booster jab

People who are eligible for an extra spring booster Covid jab are being urged to book an appointment at one of Bury’s vaccination clinics.

Public health bosses say the clinics are very busy, and booking a slot - as opposed to just showing up - will mean you don’t have to wait as long.

They are also urging residents not to attend if they do not meet the strict criteria laid down nationally.

The extra spring booster is being offered to those over 75 and people over 12 with a weakened immune system, around six months after their last vaccine dose.

People under 75 will not receive the extra spring booster unless they have a weakened immune system due to:

• A blood cancer (such as leukaemia or lymphoma)
• Treatment such as long-term steroid medicine, biological therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• Having had an organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant
• Having a condition that means you have a very high risk of getting infections, such as HIV or genetic immunodeficiencies

Lesley Jones, Bury’s director of public health, said: “We are delighted to see so many people coming for their Covid vaccinations, which are a vital tool in keeping residents safe from serious illness.

“And, with coronavirus infection rates remaining so high, we must do all we can to reduce transmission and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

“Our vaccination centres have done a tremendous job over the last 18 months, and more than a third of a million jabs have been given to Bury residents in that time.”

She added: “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get their jabs and boosters.

“However, a number of people have been turning up at our clinics for the extra spring boosters, only to find they are not eligible. I know this is disappointing, but we can only vaccinate people who meet the nationally set criteria.

“Also: our vax clinics are extremely busy at the moment, and it would really help if people could book their vaccination appointment if at all possible.”

For a list of upcoming Bury clinics, see https://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15987

Anyone aged 16+ can walk in or book for a first, second or routine booster vaccination when they are due:

• 16 and 17-year-olds are due for their second dose 12+ weeks after their first; the wait for people aged 18+ (including within 3 months of turning 18) is 8+ weeks.
• Routine booster vaccinations are due three months after the second jab.

Vaccinations for eligible young people aged 15 and under are available when they are due, but are by appointment only.

To book a vaccination, please visit Covid-NHS bookings - Greater Manchester or call 0161 983 2300, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.