The largest vaccination programme in history is continuing to expand with the offer of a targeted spring booster for those at highest risk of Covid infection, including over 75s, those with a weakened immune system and older adult care home residents. 

Following latest guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), an additional dose of the Covid vaccination is recommended for a select group of people, to maximise protection against the Covid virus throughout spring and summer. 

The NHS in London will be contacting those eligible over the coming weeks to book their top up dose of the vaccine.  

It will be the first time that millions of people across England will be sent their initial invitations through the NHS App, where they can also book their vaccination. 

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

There will be over 300 sites offering the jab across the capital, with most appointments being delivered in communities by pharmacies and GPs. 

The health service, now in its 75th year, has vaccinated over 20 million people in London and the Covid vaccination programme has saved countless lives.  

The NHS National Booking System (NBS) opened for eligible people to book the spring booster from Wednesday (5 April) for appointments in the capital beginning from Monday 17 April, with vaccination in care homes starting earlier, from Monday 3 April. 

Eligible Londoners will be able to book their spring booster jab until 30 June 2023 via the National Booking System online here or by calling 119. 

Additional information will be announced over the coming months regarding the next stage of the booster campaign for Autumn. 

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:  

“The rollout of the Covid vaccine across our capital has been a huge success, helping to save lives and opening up our city. However, the virus has not gone away and we know that the vaccine is the best possible defence against serious illness.  

“I urge Londoners who are eligible to take up the offer of a booster dose as soon as possible to protect themselves, their loved ones and the NHS.” 

Dr Chris Streather, Medical Director for the NHS in London said: 

“We have seen the success of the Covid vaccination over the past few years which has allowed us to live without restriction and getting a booster jab when offered remains the best method of protection. 

“This is particularly important for those who are deemed at highest risk, including older people and those who are immunosuppressed where the consequences of catching Covid can be more detrimental to health. 

“While we are still aware of Covid infections in the community and in hospitals, I would encourage those who are contacted by the NHS in London to take up this latest offer to ensure maximum protection.”