Is it an emergency?
Posted on
in Ipswich and East Suffolk News, North East Essex News, West Suffolk News
The NHS is urging everyone eligible for their COVID spring booster vaccination to come forward before the deadline of June 30.
This date is also the last chance for those still to have their 1st or 2nd dose to get protected.
Booked appointments will be available and walk-in clinics operating across Suffolk and north east Essex until Friday June 30. After this date, the NHS nationally is moving to a targeted seasonal offer for those most at risk of COVID, which continues to be present in our communities.
Spring boosters are available to everyone aged 75 and over and those aged 5 – 74 who are immunosuppressed. Anyone who turns 75 before the end of June is also eligible. 1st and 2nd doses are available to those aged 5 and over.
The local vaccination website has dozens of locations listed for walk-in clinics as well as information on eligibility. Booked appointments can be made on the national NHS website or by calling 119.
The local COVID telephone helpline on 0344 257 3961 will remain open until June 30, offering help and advice. After this date 119 will be the number to call.
Elizabeth Moloney, who has been leading the COVID vaccination programme for the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, said: “To read about this current COVID vaccination programme coming to an end may come to some people as a huge relief, and an opportunity to put these dark years behind us.
“To those people I say, yes, we have come a long way and the COVID vaccine has saved many lives. I understand that most of us never want to hear the COVID word ever again. But it’s not over. COVID is still with us and is still making many people sick. That’s why it is so important to seize this final chance of getting the best possible protection against this virus and reduce demand on health care services.
“Receiving the vaccine is quick and simple and will provide extra protection over the summer months, especially as we enjoy the warm weather with family and friends.
“So please make the effort to get your vaccination.”
