Members of the public have been urged to get vaccinated as the Spring covid vaccine programme enters its final fortnight.

Local NHS and public health experts are encouraging eligible people across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Royston to get their spring COVID-19 vaccine as this season’s vaccination programme enters its final fortnight.

People aged 75 and over by 30 June 2024, those living in care homes for older adults, and people with a weakened immune system are eligible for a spring vaccine.

The vaccine reduces the risk of getting seriously ill from covid and is offered to these groups of people because they are more at risk than others of getting severely ill from the disease.

Across the area, more than 68,000 eligible people have already had the vaccine - but there are still some who have not yet accepted their invitation.

Dr Fiona Head, chief medical officer for NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: “With just two weeks left before the spring COVID-19 vaccination offer closes, we want to encourage everyone who is eligible to get their jab.

"This vaccine could prevent you from getting seriously ill with COVID-19, so if you’re invited please accept the offer.”

Val Thomas, acting director of Public Health for Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “If you’re over 75, living in a care home, if you have had an illness or received treatment that has weakened your immune system, it is really important that you take up the offer of the vaccination this spring.

"It’s the safest and most effective way of protecting yourself from COVID-19 and it will help you to recover more quickly if you catch the virus."

Emmeline Watkins, acting director of public health – Peterborough, added: "It is encouraging to see that many of those who are eligible have already come forward for their spring COVID vaccine.

"If you haven’t had it, there are pharmacies and walk-in clinics across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough which are offering the vaccine until the end of June."

Getting the spring COVID-19 vaccine is easy – those eligible can book by visiting: www.nhs.uk/book-vaccine or by calling 119, or find a local walk-in clinic via www.thevaccinators.co.uk.