More than 320,000 people in the North East and Yorkshire have already had their Covid-19 autumn booster vaccination since the latest phase of the programme began earlier this month. Around 4.7 million people in the region will be eligible for the new variant-tackling vaccine and its protection against serious illness.

NHS leaders are reminding people of the importance of keeping their protection levels topped up and getting their booster when it’s their turn. People are being prioritised, so those at greatest risk are boosted first.

Already, more than 322,500 people across this region have received their autumn booster. Groups eligible over the comings weeks will include over-50s, those with a weakened immune system and housebound people, and pregnant women – in line with guidance set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

The NHS will let people know when it’s their turn to come forward. People may be invited by their GP. Once invited, people can book using the National Booking Service or by calling 119.

Latest NHS figures also show regional vaccination teams have delivered more than 19 million vaccine doses to people in the North East and Yorkshire since the beginning of the national Covid-19 vaccination campaign.

Dr Yvette Oade, Regional Medical Director, for NHS England North East and Yorkshire, said:

“The latest milestone of more than 19 million Covid-19 vaccines delivered to people across our region is a measure of the success of NHS vaccination teams in keeping people fit and well since the programme began nationally in December 2020.

“NHS teams in the North East and Yorkshire are delivering almost 30,000 vaccinations every day and, as the 19m milestone suggests, our uptake has been phenomenal. The NHS Evergreen offer still stands and vaccination teams are pleased to welcome people who continue to come forward for their first or second Covid-19 vaccinations.”

Dr Kev Smith, Regional Director of Public Health Commissioning, added:

“The Covid-19 virus is still active, and the vaccine offers the best protection for people against becoming seriously unwell, staying out of hospital and passing the virus on to others. The autumn booster will top-up the immunity of those most vulnerable to Covid ahead of winter and people who are eligible may be offered their Covid booster and a flu jab at the same time, subject to supply, with the doses approved to be co-administered.”