The NHS in Somerset has started the next phase of its Covid-19 vaccinations on April 17th, with its Spring programme designed to protect the most vulnerable residents.

Almost a third of older adults in care homes have been vaccinated since early April.

This programme is geared towards adults aged 75 and above, those with a weakened immune system, and older adult care home residents. Invitations are being sent via letters, text messages, or the NHS app. Appointments can be made online through the National Booking Service.

Caroline Upton, Head of Nursing and Quality for NHS Somerset Covid Programme, said booking an appointment at one of the clinics is effortless. Vaccinations are offered through GP surgeries and vaccination centres, and there are plenty of available appointments in Somerset.

She also asked friends, family, and neighbours to consider supporting their loved ones by helping them book their appointments and taking them to the clinic, where appointments usually take less than 15 minutes.

"It is very easy to book an appointment at one of our clinics," she confirmed.

"Vaccinations are being offered through a mix of GP surgeries and vaccination centres and we have plenty of available appointments in Somerset. Because this vaccination is geared towards the more vulnerable, we are asking friends, family and neighbours to consider reaching out to support their loved ones by helping them make their appointments and if possible, support them in getting to the clinic. The average appointment takes less than 15 minutes."

Following advice from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation, the first or second dose of Covid-19 vaccinations for everyone aged 5 on or before 31 August 2022, who has yet to receive a vaccine, will also end on June 30th. This means people must have their first dose before May 5th to receive their second dose before the cut-off date.

After June 30th, the NHS offer will become more targeted to those at increased risk, usually during seasonal campaigns. This may be the last opportunity for some people to receive a vaccine through this programme.

According to the latest admission figures from Somerset Council, more than 80,000 people in Somerset are eligible for the booster shots, and those considered most at risk will receive them. Although the Spring programme is already underway, the offer runs until June 30th, after which it will end.

Somerset's Director of Public Health, Professor Trudi Grant, reminded residents that Covid is still circulating and can cause serious illness and hospitalization for the older population and those with weakened immune systems. She encouraged everyone eligible for the booster to take up the opportunity to boost their protection.

"Although life has returned to some normality since the height of the pandemic, I want to remind Somerset residents that Covid is still circulating and can cause serious illness and hospitalisation for our older population and those with weakened immune systems.

If you are eligible for the booster this Spring, please take up the opportunity to boost your protection."