NHS confirm new spring Covid-19 vaccine campaign
By Priya Mistry
NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW have announced they have launched this year’s spring COVID-19 vaccination campaign from today (April 13); which will offer vital protection to vulnerable people who are most at risk from the virus.
The campaign will run until June 30 (Tuesday) and aims to reach the 296,180 eligible people across the resident; an ambition that helps to reduce serious illness and protect those most at risk. Eligibility for a free vaccine includes people aged seventy-five and over as well as residents living in care homes; whilst adults / children aged six months and over with a weakened immune system are also within this criteria.
Individuals considered to have a weakened immune system include those living with HIV, undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy and people who are taking medications that suppress immune response. People who have received an organ, bone marrow, or stem cell transplant and those with genetic conditions affecting the immune system are further eligible.
Dr Zaid Hirmiz, GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said about the campaign launch in a press release: “Although life has largely returned to normal for many of us, COVID-19 has not gone away and continues to circulate within our communities.”
“For those who are more vulnerable, whether due to age or underlying health conditions, the spring vaccination offers important additional protection and helps lower the chances of becoming seriously unwell or needing hospital care.”
“People may question why further doses are needed, but this is because viruses naturally evolve over time. Vaccines are updated accordingly to ensure they continue to provide the strongest possible defence.”
Eligible people may have been invited directly via their GP practice already, but they don’t need to wait for an official invitation to book a vaccination. Slots are available at multiple GP practices, pharmacies and pop up / roving clinics in the region, with the location to be made clear for people when they book their appointment. Details of any roving clinics will also be updated on the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s vaccinations page.
If anybody is unsure about eligibility and their personal health conditions, they can contact the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Covid Vaccination Helpline team by phoning 0300 561 0018. They will be able to ask questions, book vaccination slots and follow up if required for customers who call this free contact number.
PICTURED BY NHS HAMPSHIRE AND ISLE OF WIGHT: People are now able to book their spring Covid-19 vaccination across the region as NHS began campaign today (April 13).
