The NHS in London is urging everyone aged 55 and over to come forward and get their Covid vaccination, if they’ve not done so already.

With 2.5 million vaccinations already given, the NHS is reminding everyone over 55 that it’s not too late to be vaccinated.

People can book an appointment by logging on to the national booking service at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or calling 119 free of charge anytime between 7am and 11pm seven days a week.

The NHS has also begun texting people inviting them to book their life saving Covid jab, making it quicker and more convenient to get an appointment.

The text message will be sent using the Government’s secure Notify service and will show as being sent from ‘NHSvaccine’. The NHS will never ask for payment or banking details.

Appointments are staggered to allow for social distancing and people are being asked not to turn up early to avoid creating queues.

Everyone receives a health status check and a pre-vaccination assessment before they receive their vaccine dose.

Medical director for the NHS in London, Dr Vin Diwakar, said:

“It is vital that everyone aged 55 and over gets vaccinated – it is the best way to protect yourself and those around you. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and have been independently tested to the highest standards.

“I would like to thank all my fellow Londoners who have already taken the opportunity to get protected and would urge all those aged 55 and over who have not yet been vaccinated not to miss out; book your appointment now.”

More appointments are available in London than ever before. In London, more than 220 vaccination sites are now open including at GP practices, local pharmacies and large vaccination centres, and we continue to open more sites to make vaccination as accessible to everyone as possible.

Joint chief nurse for the NHS in London, Martin Machray added:

“The Covid vaccine offers us a much-needed lifeline out of the pandemic. I urge everyone aged 55 and over to come forward and get vaccinated. The vaccine is saving lives and stopping the devastation that COVID has caused in our city.”

The Covid-19 vaccines are proven to be safe and effective, but people should speak to their GP if they have any questions.