People aged 50 and over are now eligible to have their autumn COVID-19 booster vaccination.
From today, Friday 14 October, people aged 50 and over living in Suffolk or Essex can book their appointment via the NHS website, or by calling the local vaccination helpline on 0344 257 3961.
Some sites will also be offering walk-in vaccinations to those eligible – find a walk-in centre near you on the NHS website. Please note availability will depend on vaccine supply. To minimise wait times and avoid disappointment, booking in advance is recommended.
The booster vaccine is being offered to people who are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. The booster ‘tops up’ your immunity, making you less likely to catch the virus this winter and reducing your risk of becoming seriously ill.
People in the following groups are now eligible to book their autumn booster vaccine:
- adults aged 50 and over
- frontline health and social care workers
- people aged 5 and over who are at high risk due to a health condition
- people aged 16 and over who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- people aged 16 and over who are carers
- people who are pregnant
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) has delivered more than 85,000 booster vaccines this autumn, totalling 1.5 million vaccine doses since January 2021. Booster vaccines are being offered at its vaccination centres in Essex and Suffolk, as well as the Community Vaccination Bus and pop-up clinics at sites including pharmacies and libraries.
Local residents have praised EPUT’s vaccination service, saying: “Staff and volunteers were polite and friendly, and made the process simple. Everyone was a real credit to the NHS.” (Chevington Close, Bury St Edmunds).
“I am very anxious with needles and vaccinations, but the staff were excellent. Their understanding and the time they took to sit with me, reassure me and explain everything in detail was first rate.” (County Hall, Chelmsford).
Rebecca Pulford, Director of Nursing, Operations and Clinical Governance for the vaccination programme at EPUT, said: “We have all seen the benefits COVID-19 vaccination has brought for our community – reducing rates of serious illness, protecting the most vulnerable and allowing us to get back to our normal lives.
“However, COVID-19 is still with us and as winter approaches, we are seeing a rise in infections again. We know the protection the vaccine offers reduces over time, so if you’re eligible, I urge you to act now and get your vaccine. Do your bit to protect yourself, those around you, and the NHS from the worst effects of COVID-19 this winter.”