HEALTH officials are urging the public to act now and get the COVID-19 vaccination before the Spring vaccination programme ends next week, as a new virulent strain continues to spread across the country.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that the new variant, NB.1.8.1, has been detected in the UK and international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases.

World Health Organisation analysis supports these findings, indicating that while the new strain appears to transmit more efficiently between people, vaccinated individuals maintain significant protection against serious outcomes, including hospitalisation and death.

Over 400,000 people have had the vaccination across the North West region since the programme launched in March.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, is encouraging anyone not yet vaccinated to come forward as soon as possible. 

He said, “This is the final chance to get the spring COVID-19 vaccine and top up your protection against the virus for the coming months. If you are eligible you don’t need to wait for an invitation, come forward to book your appointment or visit a walk-in clinic as soon as possible.”

“The vaccine is effective against the new variant and remains our best defence against severe illness.”

The variant looks to be spreading rapidly within communities, with top symptoms being a ‘razor blade’ sore throat and swollen neck glands, as well as well-known COVID symptoms like high temperature, aches and blocked nose.

The NHS is reminding those at highest risk of getting seriously unwell if they catch the virus to come forward for their free vaccination and top up their protection.  This includes those aged 75 and over and people who are immunosuppressed. With bookings for the latest vaccination programme available until 16 June, this is the last opportunity to help boost protection and reduce the risk of catching the new strain.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said “With just a few days left to get your spring COVID-19 vaccination on the NHS, we encourage all those eligible to get vaccinated to top up their immunity for the coming months.

“We continue to remind people to take necessary steps if they have symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy by limiting contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.

“If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, as can ensuring that indoor areas are well ventilated.”

Vaccination sites are accessible across the region’s local communities offering walk-in and bookable appointments, it’s easy and convenient to get protected.

Monday 16 June is the last day to book an appointment for your COVID-19 vaccination via the NHS website, the NHS App or by calling 119.  Some local pharmacies are offering the vaccination and walk-in clinics are also available— you will be able to find your nearest walk-in COVID-19 vaccination clinic using the NHS walk-in finder.