The first eligible people in the South East will begin receiving their spring COVID-19 vaccinations today. This marks the start of the vaccination programme following the opening of the NHS national booking system last week.

More than 1.2 million people in the South East are eligible for the spring vaccine, with thousands of appointments available daily at pharmacies and GP practices until 17 June.

Eligibility for the spring COVID-19 vaccine includes:

• Adults aged 75 years and over
• Residents in care homes for older adults
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Nationally, hospitals saw an average of more than 1,000 beds each day over winter occupied by COVID-19 patients as the virus continues to circulate.

The vaccine provides vital protection against different strains of the COVID virus, helping to reduce the risk of catching and spreading it, as well as the risk of serious illness or hospitalisation if infected.

Surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on last year’s spring COVID-19 vaccination program showed that those who received a vaccine were more than 40% less likely to be admitted to hospital with COVID-19 for up to two months after vaccination, compared to those who did not receive one.

Caroline Reid, Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the COVID-19 vaccination program, NHS England South East, emphasised the importance of getting vaccinated: “Protection against COVID-19 can fade over time, and the virus can change. If you are at higher risk of severe illness, it is important to top up your protection.”

Local NHS teams have been working diligently to ensure that vaccinations are easily accessible, including organising visits to care homes and for housebound patients. Walk-in appointments are also available, with a full list of locations on the NHS walk-in finder.

Anyone eligible who has not received any previous doses should still get vaccinated during this year’s spring offer to help protect against serious illness.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit the NHS website, use the NHS App, or call 119.