Younger people who are at extra risk from COVID-19 are being urged to get their life-saving autumn vaccine as figures show lower numbers coming forward for the top-up dose in the North West compared to other eligible groups.

The region’s lead for the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme, Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, said younger people with conditions such as asthma and diabetes, as well as people with a learning disability and those with a serious mental illness such as bipolar disorder, are at increased risk from the virus but may not be aware they are eligible for the latest dose of vaccine.

As a result, fewer are coming forward, with the latest data for the North West showing overall uptake in the under 65s at-risk group is lower than in those aged 65+  and that the youngest people are the least likely to have taken up the seasonal Covid vaccine.

People aged 6 months to 64 with certain health conditions, people who are immunosuppressed due to a health condition or medical treatment, pregnant women and people with a learning disability are eligible for Covid vaccine this autumn, alongside everyone aged 65+ and frontline health and social care workers.

In the North West, 1.5% of 5 to 11-year-olds and 16% of 18 to 29-year-olds with a learning disability had come forward by the end of October, compared with 40% of those aged 60-64 . Similarly, one in ten people aged 18-29 with a weakened immune system have had the autumn Covid vaccine so far, compared with 42% of people aged 60-64. Statistics broken down by health condition show the lowest uptake in those with chronic liver disease and chronic heart disease aged 17 to 49.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning and senior responsible officer for the COVID-19 vaccination programme for NHS England – North West, said: “Overall, we’ve seen a really encouraging start to the autumn vaccination programme, including our fastest ever rollout of the vaccine in care homes.

“However, it’s concerning to see that some of our lowest uptake is in people in younger age groups who are at additional risk from COVID-19 and more likely to develop more severe illness, including more significant respiratory symptoms, and being hospitalised.

“I’d strongly urge them to come forward as soon as possible to get this vital protection and, if unsure if they’re eligible, people can speak to a pharmacist, GP or their specialist for advice.”

More than 1.1 million Covid jabs have been given in the North West since the autumn programme started in September, with many being delivered in the same appointment as the flu vaccine as providers make it as convenient as possible for people to get protected ahead of winter.

The COVID-19 national booking system makes it possible for people to book appointments for covid and flu vaccines at the same time and the vaccines are available at hundreds of sites across the region.

The autumn vaccination campaign is among a package of NHS measures to prepare for winter with the health service already facing immense pressure from ongoing industrial action, demand on emergency services, alongside the risk of a new covid variant, and common winter viruses.

GP Dr Paula Cowan, Regional Medical Director for Primary Care, NHS England North West, said: “Covid hasn’t fully gone away and it’s important we continue to be vigilant. One way we can do this is by having the vaccine.

“It’s really important that people check if they are eligible and come forward – if you normally get the free flu vaccine because of a health condition then you will be eligible for the autumn Covid vaccine this year.

“If you’re a carer for someone with those conditions, it’s really important you take up the covid vaccination too.”

All eligible adults can book their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations by visiting www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations, on the NHS App or by calling 119. Some pharmacies and other vaccine services offer walk-in clinics and people can search for their nearest location on the NHS website.