Only one in three eligible people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have had their spring COVID-19 vaccine.

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local NHS is urging those aged 75 and over, and people aged six months and older with a weakened immune system, to secure their free vaccination which serves as a measure against severe illness.

With 116,149 people deemed eligible in these areas, close to 74,576 locals have yet to respond to their invitation for this life-saving protection.

Cali Makewell, integrated vaccination programme lead with NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: “Whilst it may feel like many of our lives have now gone back to normal after the pandemic, COVID-19 is still in circulation, and it can still cause serious illness, hospitalisation, and even death.

The Hunts Post: With 116,149 people deemed eligible in these areas, close to 74,576 locals have yet to respond With 116,149 people deemed eligible in these areas, close to 74,576 locals have yet to respond (Image: Submitted)

“That’s why the NHS is inviting people who are at a higher risk of getting very seriously ill from COVID-19 to have a spring vaccination.

"If you’re invited, please don’t ignore your invitation – take up the offer of this potentially life-saving jab and get protected.”

The local NHS highlighted the ease of receiving the jab, with appointments or walk-ins available through thevaccinators.co.uk, nhs.uk/book-vaccine, or by calling 119.

The service operator can confirm eligibility, assist in booking appointments, or provide information on the nearest walk-in centre.

The latest figures show that so far 41,573 or roughly 35.78pc of the eligible population in these regions have now had their vaccine, with many yet to take up the life-saving offer.