Last chance to get first and second Covid-19 vaccinations
The current offer of first and second Covid-19 vaccinations will end at the same time as spring vaccinations, on 30 June 2023.
This means any unvaccinated people aged 18 and over who want to complete their primary course of Covid-19 vaccination, need to have their first vaccine by Friday 5 May 2023. This is to leave the required eight-week gap before their second dose.
After 5 May we will continue to offer first and second doses to anyone aged 5 and over who would like them; however, people having their first dose after 5 May 2023 will not be able to complete their primary course. Children and young people aged five to 17 must leave a 12-week gap between their first and second vaccinations, so they will not have time to complete their primary course before 30 June.
Anne Morris, Chief Nurse for the BNSSG Covid-19 Vaccination Programme, said: “I encourage anyone eligible who has had just one Covid-19 vaccination, or not had one at all, to come forward for their vaccine as soon as possible before 30 June. If you are 18 or over and want to fit in both your vaccinations, you need to have your first dose by this Friday 5 May.
“You can book an appointment for yourself or a family member using the online National Booking Service or by calling 119. Alternatively, you can find a list of walk-in vaccination clinics in our area at www.grabajab.net.
“The Covid-19 vaccine has saved countless lives, helped tens of thousands of people to stay out of hospital, and made it safer for us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions. Don’t get caught out. Make sure you and your loved ones get all the protection you need.”
After 30 June, not everyone will be able to get the Covid-19 vaccine from the NHS. The offer will become more targeted to those at higher risk from severe COVID-19, following advice from experts. The vaccine will usually only be offered seasonally (for example, during the autumn-winter period).
The NHS will let people who are eligible know when they can get the vaccine. People who become severely immunosuppressed at other times may be able to get the vaccine sooner.
Eligible people can make an appointment at a GP clinic when invited or book an appointment at a Community Vaccination Clinic using the online National Booking Service, or by calling 119. They can also attend a walk-in Community Vaccination Clinic. Details of walk-in clinics and all the vaccination options in BNSSG can be found at www.grabajab.net.