With just over a week to go to get a Covid-19 vaccination more than 700,000 people across the Midlands have had their vaccination.

The current spring campaign ends on Tuesday 17 June so health leaders across the Midlands are reminding people – especially those at highest risk of becoming seriously ill if they catch the virus – to come forward for their free vaccination while they still have opportunity.

So far across the Midlands, more than half of the eligible population (around 52%) have not taken up the free offer.

Bookings will be available until Monday 16 June, with the programme closing on Tuesday 17 June, and can be made online via the NHS App or the National Booking Service. Those eligible include:

• Adults aged 75 and over
• Residents in care homes for older adults
• People aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system

Within these groups around 77% of people who have a weakened immune system, 46% of adults aged 75 and over, and 40% of those in care homes have not taken up the offer of a Covid vaccination this spring.

Roz Lindridge, the NHS Director overseeing the vaccination programme across the Midlands, said: “We know that Covid-19 hasn’t gone away, despite the warmer weather. And certain groups remain at higher risk of serious illness. Getting the vaccination now tops up their protection as immunity does fade over time.

“With just one week left in the spring campaign, we’re urging those who haven’t yet come forward to do so. Our vaccination teams are working hard to provide convenient times and accessible locations to make it easier to attend.

“The spring vaccine helps maintain strong protection and gives peace of mind going into the warmer months. If you are vaccinated and catch Covid-19 this summer, you are likely to have milder symptoms and recover faster, cutting your risk of being hospitalised. If you’re eligible, please don’t delay – book your vaccine as soon as you can.”

It is now easier than ever to find a clinic close to you. All eligible adults can book their Covid-19 vaccination by visiting www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations, on the NHS App or by calling 119. There are also walk-in clinics at local pharmacies and pop up locations such as town centres and supermarket car parks.

Find out where and when your local clinics are taking place:

• Derby and Derbyshire
• Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
• Lincolnshire
• Northamptonshire
• Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
• Birmingham and Solihull
• Black Country
• Coventry and Warwickshire
• Herefordshire and Worcestershire
• Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin
• Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent

The spring vaccination campaign will run until Tuesday 17 June, so eligible people are encouraged to book now. For more information, visit https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/.