Shepton Mallet residents with conditions that weaken their immune system are being reminded to get their spring COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible.

Although more than 50,000 jabs have been administered across Somerset since April, the NHS says uptake is still worryingly low – with 70% of eligible people not yet protected.

You may be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination if any of the following apply:

• You are undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy

• You have received a solid organ transplant

• You have a blood cancer (such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma)

• You take medication that weakens your immune system (e.g. high-dose steroids or immunosuppressants for autoimmune conditions)

• You have advanced HIV or AIDS

advertisement

• You have a primary or acquired immunodeficiency

• You are receiving renal dialysis or have had a stem cell transplant

Mike Kelly, NHS Somerset's Vaccination Programme Lead, said: "This booster is designed to protect the most vulnerable. Please don't wait – check your eligibility and get vaccinated before 17 June."

Appointments and walk-in sites can be found at nhs.uk/covid-vaccine or by calling 119.