With the autumn COVID vaccination campaign due to end on Sunday 12 February, eligible individuals across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight who have not yet had their seasonal or first booster dose are being encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
This comes after the announcement that the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that, thanks to the success of the programme, the seasonal booster dose should end on Sunday 12 February.
The JCVI has also advised that the offer of a first COVID booster for all 16 to 49-year-olds, who are not considered at risk, will also end at the same time.
Dedicated teams have delivered over 4.9 million doses of the COVID vaccine since the programme began in December 2020, helping reduce people’s risk of getting seriously unwell from the virus. This includes vaccination at GP practices, community pharmacies, roving clinics, care home visits and home appointments for those unable to attend a clinic.
While some sites have now paused, there are still lots of accessible locations for people to get vaccinated – with some offering both COVID and flu vaccines at the same time.
Dr Matt Nisbet, GP and Clinical Lead for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, said: “I would urge everyone who is eligible for a seasonal or first booster dose to come forward and get protected before 12 February. We have seen the impact that getting vaccinated can have on reducing the number of people ending up seriously unwell and this current booster helps protect you against newer variants such as Omicron.
“We have plenty of appointments available through the national booking system, as well as walk-in clinics over the next week. Our friendly vaccination helpline team can help people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to find a time and location that works for them, as well as checking the latest eligibility information and specific clinics for children.
“These sites can also provide first and second doses for people yet to get vaccinated against COVID. Getting vaccinated saves lives and remains the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
People can get information, help with booking an appointment or finding their nearest walk-in by contacting the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018 (Open between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm at weekends).
You can also book online by visiting nhs.uk/wintervaccinations for bookable clinic or walk-in information.
The JCVI will set out further guidance on who will be eligible for COVID vaccines in future phases of the programme, such as any spring or autumn campaign, in due course.
The NHS will continue to operate a smaller scale vaccine offer from mid-February onwards to ensure those eligible for first and second doses can still get their jabs.
Anyone eligible who has not yet taken up the offer of a first, second or booster dose is strongly encouraged to do so before 12 February to ensure they are protected. There is no judgement around your reason to delay, so anyone eligible, even if they have previously declined and changed their mind, can come forward.