THE NHS in the North West has launched its Spring COVID‑19 vaccination programme, with eligible people now able to book appointments through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.

The vaccine offers vital protection to those at highest risk of serious illness from COVID‑19.

Last spring, between 1 April and 17 June 2025, a total of 440,985 people across the North West came forward for their COVID‑19 vaccination — an uptake rate of 49.1% among eligible groups. This response demonstrates the continued commitment of residents to protecting themselves and their communities.

In 2025, nearly 900,000 people in the region were eligible, and local NHS teams delivered thousands of appointments each day through GP practices and pharmacies, including vaccinations for care home residents and housebound patients.

The window to get vaccinated runs from now until 30 June 2026, with the NHS encouraging people to book as early as possible.

The vaccine is being offered to:

• Adults aged 75 and over

• Residents of older adult care homes

• People aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed

Dr Paula Cowan, GP and Regional Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England in the North West said:

“Protection against COVID‑19 decreases over time, so this spring’s vaccination offer is an important opportunity for those most at risk to boost their immunity.

“Getting this extra dose reduces your risk of becoming very unwell, helps you recover faster if you do catch it, and reduces the chance of needing hospital treatment.”

The National Booking Service (NBS) and the 119 telephone line opened on 7 April, ahead of vaccinations beginning.

Appointments will be available at community pharmacies, GP practices and designated vaccination sites across the North West.

COVID‑19 protection fades over time, and NHS leaders continue to stress the importance of topping up immunity for those eligible.

You can find out the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.

For information in easy read and other languages and formats, go to www.england.nhs.uk/seasonal-invites.

This year’s programme follows the Government’s acceptance of Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice confirming the eligible groups for spring 2026.