Hundreds of thousands of people in the South East have received their spring covid vaccination since the start of April as the NHS encourages other eligible people to book their jab. 

In the first two weeks since the spring COVID vaccination campaign began, 355,863 people in the South East have been vaccinated, with thousands of daily appointments available at pharmacies and GP practices until June 17 for the more than 1.2 million eligible individuals. 

Eligibility for the spring COVID-19 vaccine includes adults aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes for older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. 

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. 

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, and 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, said:  

“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 are 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.