The biggest and fastest vaccination drive in NHS history has today reached another milestone, announcing that more than one million people in England have received a spring booster.

In the North West, one in five people who are eligible for the top-up dose – more than 141,000 people – have already received their spring booster in just over two weeks since the programme started.

Amid rising numbers of Covid-19 infections, including in older groups and in every part of the country in recent weeks, those most vulnerable are urged to come forward as soon as they’re invited.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning and SRO for the Covid-19 vaccination programme in the North West, said: “The number of spring boosters delivered in just over two weeks shows how hard all of our NHS partners and colleagues are working to ensure that the most vulnerable to the virus have the best protection.

“With Covid-19 infection rates continuing to rise across the North West and elsewhere, it’s so important that those who are most vulnerable take up their vaccination offer, once they become eligible.

“It’s easier than ever to get an appointment, which can be booked quickly and conveniently on the National Booking Service, by calling 119 or at a walk-in centre.”

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has advised a spring jab should be offered to those most vulnerable to Covid-19 as a precautionary measure around six months on from their previous dose. Sites including community pharmacies, vaccination centres and hospital hubs are offering spring boosters.

Nationally, around two million invites have been sent so far to those who are eligible which includes people aged 75 and over, adult care home residents and those who are immunosuppressed aged 12 and over. In the North West, more than 693,000 people are eligible for a spring booster.