Eligible people in the North East and Yorkshire yet to benefit from the seasonal Covid-19 booster are reminded to come forward for protection against the risk of serious illness before the NHS vaccination programme ends on Sunday 12 February.

The reminder by the regional clinical lead for NHS Covid-19 vaccination follows advice to Government by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) that thanks to the success of the programme for 16- to 49-year-olds not considered at risk, it should end at the same time as the autumn campaign.

This means 12 February will be the last chance for anyone invited for a Covid booster to take up their offer, until future campaigns are agreed by the JCVI and Government.

While more than 2.7 million people in the North East and Yorkshire have had their Covid-19 autumn booster, there are still a number of eligible people yet to take up their winter vaccinations and therefore at increased risk of serious illness.

Dr Yvette Oade, NHS England’s North East and Yorkshire Medical Director and Clinical Lead for the Covid-19 vaccination programme, said it has saved lives and eased pressure on the health service.

“Whether it’s your first booster or you’re eligible for an autumn booster, I want to encourage anyone who hasn’t yet come forward to book an appointment in the next couple of weeks,” Dr Oade said. “The vaccine will top up your immunity against Covid and keep you and your loved ones protected.

“Covid-19 remains dangerous and even life-threatening for some, especially older people and younger people with long-term health conditions. The seasonal booster reduces the chances of serious illness and protects against Omicron variants.”

The vaccine has been rigorously tested to the highest safety standards and is continuously monitored for safety. It has been tested on tens of thousands of people across the world – men, women, people of different ethnicities and ages – as well as given to millions more.

People can book their latest Covid-19 dose through the national booking system or by calling 119. You can also get a dose of the Covid-19 vaccine from a walk-in site without an appointment. People can find their nearest walk-in sites on the NHS website.

The NHS will continue to operate a smaller-scale vaccine offer from mid-February onwards to ensure those eligible for first and second doses can still get their jabs.